Nearly thirty animals, including both dogs and cats, were rescued from a dilapidated mobile near Van on Friday. But it was not the first time the poor condition of the animals had been noticed by authorities.

More than a month ago, an SPCA investigator visited the property in question and, acting at the request of the Van Zandt County Sheriff's Department, began working with the owner to bring the site into compliance with Texas Health and Safety Code. When the investigator returned to follow up almost a month later, nothing on the compliance agreement had been met. The SPCA agreed with the Van Zandt County Sheriff's Department that the animals' conditions had deteriorated and that immediate action was needed.

That hearing is scheduled for Wednesday, October 21 at 2 p.m. at the Van Zandt County Justice of the Peace, Pct. 2 Courthouse at in Canton.

Most of the animals appeared to suffering from various medical issues. At least half of the dogs are underweight, two dogs are emaciated, all of the animals are infested with fleas, some have hair loss and one dog appears to have a severe leg injury.

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