Marlin, Texas – The city-run animal shelter in Marlin, Texas, has been at the center of controversy following reports of animal neglect and the discovery of multiple deceased dogs. Concerned citizens Michelle and Robert Ward have stepped up to assist in addressing the situation, becoming liaisons between the shelter and the community.
City officials, including Police Chief James Hommel, met with the Ward couple to discuss the operations and management of the shelter. The Wards have taken on the responsibility of overseeing donations and ensuring they are appropriately allocated to the shelter. They are actively monitoring the situation to improve conditions before any dogs are allowed back in.
The community has rallied around the Wards, who are known for their love of dogs and have integrated their passion into their coffee shop. They are urging community members to donate blankets to help stray dogs that are currently roaming the streets of Marlin due to the shelter being temporarily closed.
Efforts are being made to clean up the shelter and prevent the spread of the canine parvovirus before dogs can be reintroduced. Chief Hommel has expressed willingness to relocate the dogs inside the shelter once the facility is ready.
Meanwhile, the Falls County Sheriff’s Office and Falls County District Attorney’s Office are conducting investigations into the situation at the shelter. City officials have acknowledged the severity of the issue and are cooperating with the investigations to ensure accountability for those responsible for the neglect.
In a statement released by Mayor Susan Byrd, she expressed her heartfelt concern for the animals affected by the tragedy and thanked local volunteers and organizations for their support in rehoming the dogs. The city is committed to implementing updated policies and procedures to prevent similar incidents from occurring in the future.
Despite the ongoing investigations, Mayor Byrd has indicated that protests against the city are being planned. While she acknowledges the right to protest, she emphasized the importance of working together to address the issue rather than engaging in divisive actions.
As the community works to address the challenges at the shelter, the Wards continue to advocate for the well-being of animals in need and encourage the public to join them in their efforts to provide support and care for stray dogs in Marlin.