Three dogs killed by bees in Katy backyard

KATY, TX (KTRK) -- Katy residents are devastated by what happened to their family pets Friday, but they want to warn others, in the hopes of preventing other dogs from dying.

A homeowner in the Woodcreek Estates neighborhood came home from the store at about 1pm Friday to find her three dogs dead in the backyard. They had suffered multiple bee stings.

According to Maria Galvez, Katy's Emergency Management Coordinator, animal control officers arrived at the scene to remove the dogs and spotted hives in parts of a rock wall that borders the neighborhood.

The homeowner called a beekeeper, and as the keeper was working to collect the bees, he noticed one of the rock pillars had a hole and was home to easily 80,000 bees, Galvez said.

Bee samples were collected and sent to Texas A&M to be tested to find out exactly what variety they are. The keeper returned on Saturday evening and collected lots of honey comb from parts of the pillar.

The homeowner's association has sent a warning to other residents in the area to be cautious for pets and kids, and to take a close look at structural areas. They were able to collect a majority of the hive, but there are residual bees that may now looking for place to live.

The dog owners are heartbroken by their loss. They warn other residents to take caution around their property, particularly when mowing, as that may agitate bees.

The pet owners shared the following photos and memories of their beloved pets.

This is Rocco, my husband's best friend. He is a German short hair. Rocco was the most gentle dog. Although he was supposed to be a hunting dog, he was not. He was a member of our family. He loved toys and almost always carried one in his mouth. He will be missed.

Oh what a love. This Australian Shepherd was my daughter's dog and grandson and granddaughter's dog. Koda was visiting for the evening/day. He loved to play with Gus, and fit right in our household. He followed my daughter everywhere. She adored him. He was still alive when I found the poor pups, but struggling. My wonderful neighbor tried to reach the vet in time, but he died en route.

My husband thought Gus was the best retriever ever. Gus just wanted to please, so sweet. He thought he was little and would try to crawl in your lap. He was a love. And he was well loved.