Ep 9. Family Feuds (aka The Dog House)

Animal Precinct is a reality television series that follows the work of the Humane Law Enforcement division of the American Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals (ASPCA). The show documents the efforts of the officers of the organization to investigate and rescue animals from abusive and neglectful homes. In season 3 episode 9, entitled "Family Feuds" (also known as "The Dog House"), the team faces a complicated case involving a family with a history of conflict and their dogs.

The episode starts with the ASPCA receiving a report about a group of dogs living in squalor in a house where multiple people reside. As the officers arrive at the location, they are immediately hit by the stench of feces and urine, and find the animals caged in cramped and filthy conditions. The team quickly identifies multiple issues, including malnutrition, untreated medical conditions, and lack of socialization.

However, what makes the case particularly challenging is the complicated family dynamic involved. The house belongs to a woman who shares it with her adult son and his girlfriend. The son has a different father from the woman's other children, and there is a long-standing tension between him and his siblings. Moreover, there are multiple dogs in the house, some of which belong to different family members and were not all acquired through legal means.

The officers work hard to gain the trust and cooperation of the family members, who are initially hostile and defensive. They explain the gravity of the situation and the potential legal consequences of neglecting the animals. They also offer resources and support to help the family make the necessary improvements to their living conditions and pet care.

The family eventually agrees to surrender all the dogs to the ASPCA, including some that they had initially denied owning. The officers evaluate the animals' health and behavior, and find that they all require extensive medical treatment and behavioral rehabilitation. Some of the dogs are highly fearful and aggressive, and the team has to use caution and expertise to handle them safely.

The episode also shows how the ASPCA works with other animal welfare organizations to provide the best possible care for the rescued animals. The dogs are taken to a temporary shelter where they receive medical attention, proper nutrition, and opportunities to socialize. The team also contacts animal behaviorists and trainers to help with the rehabilitation of the dogs with behavioral issues.

The investigation and rescue operation concludes with the family members receiving citations for animal cruelty and neglect. They are also required to attend counseling and educational programs to improve their understanding of responsible pet ownership. The episode ends with the rescued dogs in a much better state than they were before, thanks to the tireless efforts of the ASPCA officers and their partners.

Overall, "Family Feuds" is an engaging and poignant episode that illustrates the complex and challenging work of the ASPCA's Humane Law Enforcement division. It shows the difficulties of addressing animal welfare issues in households where multiple people and animals are involved, and the importance of addressing underlying conflicts and providing support to prevent further neglect.