by | Published
HAYS COUNTY, Texas — Two people have been arrested following a lengthy investigation into the deaths of two dogs at a boarding and transport facility in unincorporated Kyle, according to the Hays County Sheriff's Office.
Authorities said the investigation into EZ Dog Stay and Play began in August 2024 after two dogs died while in the facility’s care.
Investigators with the HCSO Animal Control Unit and Criminal Investigations Division said the case uncovered what they described as unsafe animal transportation conditions and deceptive business practices.
According to investigators, on Aug. 20, 2024, two dogs being transported by employee Taylor Roberts, 25, of Dale, spent several hours inside the rear section of a cargo van without adequate air conditioning or ventilation.
The dogs were later taken to an emergency veterinary clinic in Austin, where both arrived deceased.
Veterinary staff recorded the dogs’ body temperatures at 110 degrees — the highest reading available on the clinic’s thermometer — and determined both animals died from heat stroke.
Investigators said the cargo area used to transport the dogs lacked proper climate control.
Authorities said former employees had previously raised concerns about unsafe transportation conditions to business owner Evan Zwerneman, 35, of Elgin, before the incident occurred.
Investigators allege Zwerneman failed to adequately address those concerns.
During the investigation, animal control officers also conducted inspections that allegedly revealed misleading claims made to customers about the facility’s operations.
According to the sheriff’s office, the business advertised “kennel free suite” boarding options that investigators determined did not exist.
Officials also said Zwerneman falsely claimed he lived on the property to provide continuous oversight of boarded animals, despite the facility lacking fire suppression systems.
As a result of the investigation, warrants were obtained for both Zwerneman and Roberts. Authorities said both surrendered at the Hays County Jail on April 17, 2026.
Zwerneman was charged with:
He was later released on a total bond of $14,000.
Roberts was charged with:
Roberts was released on a total bond of $8,000.
EZ Dog Stay and Play remains in operation. Pet owners who believe their animals may have been harmed while in the care of EZ Dog Stay and Play, or anyone with information related to this case, are encouraged to contact Detective Jessica Barkley at jessica.barkley@hayscountytx.gov.
