Request for State Review – Dogtown Ranch Rescue & Sanctuary, Milam County, Texas

Dear Attorney General Ken Paxton,

 

My name is Lori Brandon, and I am the Founding Director of Justice for Samson Animal Rescue, a Texas 501(c)(3) animal welfare organization.

 

I am writing to formally request that your office review the serious concerns surrounding Dogtown Ranch Rescue & Sanctuary in Milam County, Texas, as well as the response of local authorities to repeated reports concerning the welfare of animals at this facility.

 

These concerns have gained significant public attention, and a Change.org petition has been created calling for accountability, transparency, and an independent investigation.

 

The information being circulated publicly includes photographs, videos, witness accounts, and other documentation that raise serious questions regarding animal welfare and conditions at the property. Among the concerns reported are dogs appearing in or around a burn pile, animals allegedly being improperly handled or dragged, and questions regarding veterinary care and documentation.

 

There are also concerns regarding a dog named Annie who has reportedly been allowed to roam freely from the property despite applicable animal-control requirements.

 

We have been informed that the SPCA previously visited the property and required changes or improvements, although the situation was reportedly not classified as an emergency. The exact findings and corrective actions from that visit have not been made clear to the public.

 

Additional questions have arisen regarding the independence of veterinary oversight because a veterinary technician associated with a veterinary practice has reportedly been listed among the organization's leadership or board. I am not asking your office to assume wrongdoing based on that relationship. I am asking that any investigation rely on independent veterinary professionals who have no connection to the facility.

 

There are also questions surrounding a recent RV fire at the property that reportedly occurred shortly after a burn ban was issued in Milam County. The public does not know what the RV contained or whether animals, records, or other materials were involved. This is another matter that deserves factual clarification by the appropriate authorities.

 

Perhaps most troubling is the apparent breakdown of public confidence in local oversight. Animal advocates Todd Stephen Smith and Paul Mueller have traveled to Milam County seeking answers and assistance for these animals. Publicly available video documents their efforts, including interaction with local law enforcement. According to statements subsequently made by Mr. Smith, the Sheriff's Office has indicated that it is unwilling to meet further or participate in the requested investigation.

 

I recognize that social-media allegations are not evidence of guilt. That is precisely why I am asking for an independent, lawful investigation.

 

The animals deserve facts.

 

The public deserves facts.

 

And if the facility and everyone involved have acted appropriately, an independent investigation provides the opportunity to establish that as well.

 

I respectfully ask the Office of the Texas Attorney General to determine what jurisdiction your office may have and, where appropriate, refer or coordinate this matter with agencies capable of independently reviewing the allegations, including appropriate state animal-welfare authorities, the Texas Department of Public Safety/Texas Rangers, federal authorities where federal jurisdiction exists, and any other agency with applicable regulatory or criminal jurisdiction.

 

Specifically, I am requesting review of:

 

• Animal welfare and living conditions at Dogtown Ranch Rescue & Sanctuary

• Veterinary records and documentation for animals represented as receiving treatment

• Financial solicitation and representations made to donors concerning specific animals

• Compliance with applicable nonprofit and charitable-solicitation requirements

• Circumstances surrounding the reported RV fire

• Compliance with applicable burn-ban requirements

• The reported roaming of animals from the facility

• The response of local authorities to complaints and requests for investigation

• Whether an independent inspection and veterinary assessment of the animals is warranted

 

I am not asking your office to convict anyone through public opinion. I am asking Texas officials to ensure that the law is being followed and that the animals are protected while the facts are established.

 

Our Change.org campaign and supporting materials can provide additional information, photographs, videos, timelines, and public statements relevant to these concerns. I am also willing to provide the documentation available to me directly to the appropriate investigator.

 

Please help ensure that this matter receives an independent review outside the increasingly contentious environment surrounding it.

 

These animals cannot speak for themselves. Texans who are asking questions on their behalf deserve more than silence.

 

Thank you for your time and consideration. I respectfully request confirmation that this complaint has been received and information regarding the appropriate agency or division to which these concerns should be directed.

 

Sincerely,

 

Lori Brandon

Founding Director

Justice for Samson Animal Rescue

Texas 501(c)(3) Animal Welfare Organization

samsonsjustice.org