A judge in West Texas has refused to return more than 200 neglected dogs to the owners.
A Floyd County justice of the peace on Thursday ruled that Mark and Sandra Smith of Lockney had treated the animals cruelly. The Smiths were ordered to pay nearly $237,000 to Floyd County for the cost of caring for the animals, which were seized in late September.
Deputies found feces-covered doors, dirty water bowls and fly-covered food at Alpha Tex Kennel.
Ownership of the dogs has been transferred to the Humane Society of West Texas.
The Smiths, who have 30 days to appeal, declined comment following the hearing.
Copyright AP - Associated Press
