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SPCA of Texas seizes dog from Commerce Animal Shelter

An active investigation of practices at the Commerce Animal Shelter prompted the SPCA of Texas to seize a dog from the facility on Apr. 9. "Medical neglect" was cited as the justification for the seizure.
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The Society for Prevention of Cruelty to Animals of Texas has seized a dog from the Commerce Animal Shelter, an organizational spokeswoman said. The agency took custody of a dog from the shelter on Apr. 9, according to Maura Davies of the SPCA of Texas. 

The dog was taken from the shelter because of "medical neglect," Davies said. No other details about the animal or its current condition, or its condition at the time of the seizure, were available.

"The dog is receiving all necessary medical care," Davies said. A Commerce Police Department officer and a Hunt County Constable were present to escort SPCA of Texas staff during the seizure of the dog from the shelter on Apr. 9, Davies said. 

A custody hearing to determine the fate of the dog is set for 2 p.m. Apr. 15 in the court of Judge Jennifer Reeves, Justice of the Peace for Hunt County Precinct 2, 100 Kings Plaza, Suite F, in Commerce.

The SPCA of Texas has an open case regarding conditions at the Commerce Animal Shelter.

"We will be continuing the investigation," Davies said. 

The Commerce Animal Shelter, located at 1203 O'Neal St. in Commerce, is operated by the City of Commerce. The SPCA of Texas is a Dallas-based private, nonprofit organization and operates two shelters and three spay/neuter and wellness clinics in the North Texas area.

The Commerce Animal Shelter has been the subject of public scrutiny in recent months. Most recently, complaints prompted the SPCA of Texas to begin an investigation in October 2014 that was concluded in December 2014 with no findings of civil or criminal violations.

Details about closed investigations in which violations were not found are not available, Davies said. Details about active investigations are also unavailable in order to protect the integrity of the investigation, she said. 

Mark Haslett has served at KETR since 2013. Since then, the station's news operation has enjoyed an increase in listener engagement and audience metrics, as well recognition in the Texas AP Broadcasters awards.
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