My Landlord Took My Dog.

Maintenance came to my apartment to fix a separate issue. While in there they saw my personal couches (not property of apt) were torn up where they believed the dogs were not eating. The dogs have an automatic feeder and multiple water bowls. They were perfectly fine, just tore up the couch.

While I was gone (not even 3 hours) they contacted animal welfare who then contacted me with concern and wanted to meet. When they arrived they came to the conclusion that I had to surrender one of my dogs because they didn’t like his condition and did not give me the opportunity to correct even though he is of normal weight for his breed and age.

They went on to say they were leaving my other dog because the other one was more adoptable and that the shelter didn’t have enough room for both. They issued me a citation for cruelty however there is no explanation listed only a court date and citation. It also doesn’t make sense that they would only take 1 of the dogs if they’re both being mistreated.

Can they do this and do I have a case if they cannot?