Texarkana residents love their animals. There’s no doubt about that.

Dogs, cats or more exotic pets are in homes across the city. For many people, their pets are close friends and companions. For others, they take the place of children.

We talk to them like they understand every word. We pamper them with treats and toys. We spend hard-earned money to keep them safe, healthy and happy.

But sometimes, even the best-intentioned owners make mistakes. And those mistakes can mean a lot of heartache for the owners and possibly a much worse fate for the animals.