AUSTIN (KXAN) — Austin Pets Alive! said a person broke into its Town Lake Animal Center overnight and released the majority of the dogs at the facility from their kennels.
APA! said the incident led to an ongoing search for missing pets, as well as at least five dogs sustaining injuries and even the death of one dog.
According to the animal rescue, the injured dogs were receiving veterinary care and were in stable condition.
“This is an incredibly difficult morning for our team,” said Dr. Ellen Jefferson, president and CEO of Austin Pets Alive! “The dog that passed was surrounded by people who loved him, and we will be honoring his life in a separate internal announcement. Right now, our priority is the safety of the remaining dogs and finding the two who are still missing and moving terrified dogs to foster homes as fast as we can where they can recover.”
Anyone with information or who spots one of the missing dogs can contact APA! immediately at 512-663-8643.