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Heartbreak at Austin Pets Alive!: Break-In Leaves One Dog Dead, Others Injured
A devastating incident at Austin Pets Alive!’s Town Lake Animal Center in the early hours of Thursday has left staff, volunteers, and supporters in shock. According to the Austin Police Department, the break-in occurred at approximately 1:21 a.m., when a single intruder damaged the keypad system to gain entry.
Once inside, the suspect released numerous dogs from their kennels, setting off a chain of chaos that quickly turned tragic. Freed animals engaged in multiple altercations, leaving the facility in disarray by the time staff discovered the scene hours later. Employees and volunteers worked urgently to separate the dogs and provide immediate care.
Five dogs sustained injuries in the ordeal and are now receiving veterinary treatment. All are reported to be in stable condition. Tragically, one dog, Wade, succumbed to his injuries despite efforts to save him. “The dog that passed was surrounded by people who loved him,” said Dr. Ellen Jefferson, president and CEO of Austin Pets Alive!.
The intruder also removed two dogs from the property—Fish Stick Jones and Lynette. Thankfully, both have since been located and returned safely. Cats housed at the facility were unharmed.
While Austin Pets Alive! maintains overnight security, staff were not alerted to the break-in until around 6 a.m. Police records indicate officers arrived on the scene at approximately 5:19 a.m. The on-duty security guard was hospitalized with non-life-threatening injuries and has since been released.
In the wake of the incident, the organization is appealing for foster homes to help care for dogs traumatized by the event. The need for temporary, loving environments is critical as staff work to restore a sense of safety and stability for the animals.
The suspect remains unidentified, and no arrests have been made. The Austin Police Department continues to investigate the break-in, which has deeply shaken the local animal welfare community.
For Austin Pets Alive! and those who support its mission, the loss of Wade and the injuries to other dogs are a heartbreaking reminder of the vulnerability of shelter animals. Even amid the grief, the organization’s dedication to their care remains unwavering, with staff and volunteers committed to helping each animal heal both physically and emotionally.
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This content was created with AI assistance and edited by the iHeartDogs team.
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