Two dogs seized after being chained outdoors during Charlotte’s major snowstorm, animal control says

What happened

Two dogs were seized in Charlotte after animal control officers found them tethered outdoors during severe winter weather, without adequate food, water or shelter. The seizure followed a cruelty report made on Saturday, Jan. 31, 2026, as a major snowstorm affected the region.

The dogs, now called Mickey and Minnie at the shelter, were taken into custody by Charlotte-Mecklenburg Animal Care & Control. Shelter staff said both animals received medical attention, are being monitored, and are currently safe and stable.

How the case came to authorities’ attention

Animal control became involved after multiple calls were placed through the city’s 311 system reporting the dogs’ conditions. Officers responded despite storm impacts that limited normal operations across the area.

Charlotte-Mecklenburg Animal Care & Control said that even when the public-facing shelter is closed due to weather, staff continue to care for animals inside the facility and officers continue responding to emergency calls.

What seizure means and what comes next

In this case, officers issued a seizure notice and documented an intent to forfeit ownership rights. Such documentation is used to establish the agency’s legal custody and to begin the administrative process that can determine whether an owner retains rights to an animal.

As of Feb. 3, 2026, authorities had not announced any charges tied to the seizure. The dogs are expected to become available for adoption after required holding and case-processing steps are completed.

Rules for restraint and basic care in Charlotte-Mecklenburg

Local animal regulations require pets to be physically restrained when not contained by fencing. The city and county also maintain specific standards for tethering intended to reduce injury and prevent entanglement. Guidance for compliance includes using appropriate tether length and hardware, ensuring collars or harnesses fit properly, and keeping the dog’s area clear of hazards.

• Dogs must have access to basic necessities, including water and protection from harmful conditions.
• Tethering setups are expected to allow safe movement and reduce the risk of tangling.
• Animal control investigates complaints and can issue citations that increase for repeat violations.

Animal control staff reported the dogs were treated and are now warm, active and under continued monitoring.

Public reporting during extreme weather

Officials continue to urge residents to report situations where animals appear to be in distress or exposed to dangerous conditions, including during extreme cold. In Charlotte, 311 is used for non-emergency animal-related service requests, while emergency situations may require a 911 call.