The Rural Texas Animal No Kill (TANK) Rescue, a local animal rescue organization, has been hit with a $4,500 fine by the Massachusetts Department of Agricultural Resources (MDAR).
An investigation conducted by KRIS 6 News uncovered serious violations of the Animal Welfare Act by Rural TANK and its owner, Kayla Denney. Reports revealed that dogs and cats were transported across the country in overcrowded crates, often without adequate food or water. Additionally, there were instances where adopters did not receive their pets despite having paid, and animals arrived in poor health and died shortly thereafter.
In response to these issues, MDAR initiated an investigation in June 2021, leading to a cease-and-desist order against Rural TANK Rescue. The investigation found that the rescue had dispatched a shipment of dogs infected with Parvovirus. Further violations included continuing operations despite the cease-and-desist order, importing dogs with falsified health certificates, adopting out dogs with behavioral problems, and one case where a dog died just 16 hours after arrival.
In addition to the fine, Rural TANK Rescue lost its non-profit status in 2022 due to failure to submit required documentation to the IRS. The organization has been operating out of San Patricio County, Texas, since 2019.
For those looking to adopt in Massachusetts, MDAR advises verifying that the adopting organization is properly licensed. Texas, however, does not have a state licensing process for animal rescues and shelters, making it crucial for potential adopters to thoroughly research any organization before proceeding.
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