Angela Sera Arrested and Dogtown Ranch Closed
Angela Sera, the 69-year-old owner and operator of Dogtown Ranch and Sanctuary in Rockdale, was arrested and charged with cruelty to non-livestock animals, a class A misdemeanor, according to the Milam County Sheriff’s Office. Following a week-long collaboration between the sheriff’s office and the Brandywine Valley Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals (BVSPCA), 82 dogs were voluntarily surrendered from the Central Texas facility, officially closing the rescue.
Veterinary Report on Baby Reina Leads to Arrest
The arrest followed new diagnostic evidence gathered after the recent surrender of a pit bull terrier mix named Baby Reina. According to the sheriff’s office, a veterinary report from a Travis County animal clinic listed numerous issues for the dog, including worms, dehydration, fleas, ticks, malnutrition, and substantial, longstanding unmet medical and nutritional needs.
This evidence differed substantially from previous veterinary findings during an investigation of Dogtown Ranch on July 9, which did not establish probable cause for charges but resulted in a recommendation for veterinary care. A follow-up visit with a Lee County animal clinic on August 5 found Reina to be severely underweight with cataracts, dental disease, and a resolving staph infection, but recorded no fleas or ticks. No known treatments were provided between that visit and the dog’s recent surrender.
Surrender and Relocation of the 82 Dogs
All 82 dogs removed from the facility were voluntarily surrendered to the BVSPCA. The organization noted on its website that the dogs are safe, while acknowledging that the work is ongoing. Some of the rescued animals have arrived at BVSPCA facilities in Pennsylvania, while others have been placed with shelter partners.
Milam County Sheriff Mike Clore expressed gratitude for the rescue organization’s assistance. “Their expertise and willingness to take in these animals made all the difference,” Clore stated in a release.
Sera Remains in Jail Under Bond
Sera remains held in the Milam County jail under a $3,000 bond as of Wednesday. Sheriff Clore noted that the case will now move through the court process, during which Sera is presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty in court.
Frequently Asked Questions About the Dogtown Ranch Closure
What charges does Angela Sera face?
Angela Sera faces a class A misdemeanor charge of cruelty to non-livestock animals filed by the Milam County Sheriff’s Office.
How many animals were removed from the sanctuary?
A total of 82 dogs were voluntarily surrendered during the joint operation between the sheriff’s office and the BVSPCA.
Where are the surrendered dogs being housed?
The animals have been taken in by the BVSPCA, with some arriving at facilities in Pennsylvania and others placed with various shelter partners.