The couple allegedly moved out and left the animals behind with no water or food. The pets were allegedly found in kennels surrounded by weeks-old “feces and urine.”
BEXAR COUNTY, Texas — The Bexar County Sheriff’s Office has arrested a couple accused of leaving 70 cats and dogs behind after moving out of the Schertz home.
On July 27, animal control responded to the 10615 block of Hillbrook after receiving reports of animals being abandoned.
Upon arrival, the person who made the report claimed the owners of the home owed more than $11,000 in property taxes and refused to pay it before moving out.
When officers went inside the home, they allegedly found several animals in separate kennels surrounded by feces and urine. Authorities said it became obvious the owners had abandoned the animals in the home and left them without food or water.
The affidavit states that the temperature at the time was over 90 degrees, and “any person or animal without hydration or shade could suffer heat exhaustion or die.”
Maria Guajardo and Ricardo Guajardo were arrested and are both facing 70 counts of cruelty to non-livestock animals.
“Maria and Ricardo intentionally, or recklessly abandoned 64 cats and 6 dogs at the residence without making reasonable arrangements for custody,” the affidavit states. “Maria and Ricardo did not have any concern for health and safety, not provide the necessary food, water, care and shelter for the non-livestock animals.”
The Schertz Police Department was overwhelmed with the response and support from the community who donated an abundance of items after hearing about the abandoned animals. Anyone who would like to support these animals as they get back on their feet and full health can send nay of the following donations to the Schertz Animal Center:
- Cat food dishes
- Flea and tick medication (Cats and small dogs)
- Newspapers
- Unscented baby wipes
- Plastic envelopes (5×7)
- Spray bottles
- Cardboard boxes for litter boxes
- Kitten bottle nipples