RESPONSE REGARDING DOGTOWN RANCH SANCTUARY — August 6, 2026
(CAMERON, TX) — The Milam County Sheriff’s Office has received multiple complaints, including form letters, concerning Dogtown Ranch Sanctuary near Rockdale. We understand the seriousness of allegations involving animal cruelty or neglect, and we have taken these complaints seriously.
Contrary to claims that no documented wellness check or investigation has occurred, Sheriff’s Office investigators have conducted multiple inspections of the property, including unannounced visits and an inspection involving an outside animal welfare investigator and licensed veterinarian.
On April 6, 2026, Sheriff’s Office investigators arrived at Dogtown Ranch without prior notice and met with the owner, Angela Sera. Ms. Sera was cooperative and allowed complete access to the property.
During that inspection:
- All dogs observed had access to food and clean water.
- All animal enclosures had shade.
- Dogs housed individually because they could not safely be kept with other dogs had food and water available.
- Investigators were advised that individually kenneled dogs are taken out throughout the day for exercise and bathroom breaks.
- Investigators did not observe any dog that appeared to be suffering, in immediate distress, or in need of emergency veterinary care.
- Investigators did not observe any deceased animals on the property.
Two horses were also located on the property and shared a shaded enclosure. One appeared healthy and in good body condition. The second horse was noticeably thinner. Ms. Sera stated that the horse is nearly 30 years old. Investigators observed the horse eating and confirmed that it had access to the same food and water as the healthier horse.
Sheriff’s Office investigators photographed every animal and every enclosure on the property. Those photographs were reviewed with an Assistant District Attorney. Based on the conditions observed and the evidence available at that time, it was determined there was no evidence supporting criminal charges.
The Sheriff’s Office also coordinated with Humane World for Animals and the SPCA of Texas to obtain an independent assessment.
On July 9, 2026, Sheriff’s Office investigators conducted another unannounced inspection of Dogtown Ranch, accompanied by an SPCA investigator and an SPCA veterinarian. Ms. Sera again provided full access to the property.
Neither the SPCA investigator nor the veterinarian identified an emergency condition requiring immediate removal of the animals or criminal enforcement action. The SPCA did identify improvements that should be made to the property and its animal-care practices. The Sheriff’s Office received that list on July 28, 2026.
On July 31, 2026, Sheriff’s Office investigators returned to Dogtown Ranch without prior notice. Ms. Sera agreed to complete the recommended improvements. Investigators have verified that she is actively working toward compliance and that several of the improvements have already been completed.
Ms. Sera also agreed to reduce the number of animals at the sanctuary by surrendering a number of dogs to an outside organization. Reducing the animal population will help ensure that adequate care can continue to be provided to the animals that remain.
Ms. Sera advised that some animals periodically die at the sanctuary. Many of the dogs housed there are elderly, medically compromised, behaviorally difficult, or otherwise unlikely to be adopted. As a result, some remain at the sanctuary for the rest of their lives.
She stated that deceased animals are sometimes buried and sometimes burned. In rural areas of Milam County, the burning of deceased animals, particularly livestock, has historically been used to reduce odors and help prevent the spread of disease. Any disposal of animal remains is subject to applicable laws and regulations.
The specific actions requested in the form complaint have therefore already occurred or are underway:
- Unannounced wellness checks: Sheriff’s Office investigators have conducted multiple unannounced visits.
- Independent veterinary or animal welfare review: An SPCA investigator and SPCA veterinarian personally inspected the property.
- Documentation of complaints and findings: Complaints, inspection information, photographs, and related records have been documented and preserved in accordance with applicable law.
- Public information regarding corrective action: The SPCA provided a list of recommended improvements. Ms. Sera agreed to complete those improvements and has already completed several.
- Coordination with outside organizations: The Sheriff’s Office has worked with Humane World for Animals and the SPCA of Texas.
The Sheriff’s Office recognizes that some people may disagree with the operation of an animal sanctuary, the number of animals housed there, or the condition of an elderly or medically compromised animal. However, disagreement, online allegations, photographs without context, or repeated form complaints do not by themselves establish a criminal offense.
While we don’t normally comment or respond on matters involving ongoing investigations, the amount of interest in this situation required an open and honest dialogue with the community. The responsibility of the Sheriff’s Office is to investigate the facts, document the conditions, consult with appropriate professionals and prosecutors, and determine whether the available evidence establishes probable cause that a criminal offense has occurred.
Based on multiple unannounced inspections by Sheriff’s Office investigators, photographic documentation, consultation with the District Attorney’s Office, and an in-person assessment by an SPCA investigator and veterinarian, the Sheriff’s Office has not found evidence at this time that supports criminal animal-cruelty charges.
The Sheriff’s Office will continue monitoring Dogtown Ranch’s progress toward compliance. If conditions deteriorate, recommended improvements are not completed, or credible new evidence of criminal activity is received, Sheriff’s Office investigators will investigate and take appropriate action.
Anyone with firsthand information, photographs, video, veterinary records, witness statements, or other specific evidence is encouraged to provide it to the Milam County Sheriff’s Office. Credible and verifiable information will be reviewed.