The Humane Society of the United States is offering a reward of up to $5,000 for information leading to the identification, arrest and conviction of the person or persons responsible for the abuse of a dog in Hazard, Kentucky, that resulted in devastating jaw and tongue injuries.
The Case:
The Lexington Herald-Leader and WYMT give the following account: On June 17, a 10-month-old male dog was found on Bartlett Street in Hazard with serious injuries to his jaw and tongue. With funding from the Arrow Fund, veterinarians at Metropolitan Veterinary Specialty & Emergency Services in Louisville performed multiple surgeries to remove dead bone using an acrylic splint, stiches and wires; an additional jaw surgery will be required in about four weeks. Unfortunately, not all of the dog’s sustained injuries could be repaired. He is expected to survive and will be available for adoption after a full recovery in foster care.
Animal Cruelty: Getting the serious attention of law enforcement, prosecutors and residents in cases involving allegations of cruelty to animals is an essential step in protecting the community. The connection between animal cruelty and human violence is well documented. Studies show a correlation between animal cruelty and all manner of other crimes, from narcotics and firearms violations to battery and sexual assault.
Authorities believe the dog, who is a reddish-tan, short-haired Chihuahua mix, was struck in the face.
“It takes a truly callous person to hit a dog in the face hard enough to destroy part of his jaw,” said Kathryn Callah
an, The HSUS’ Kentucky state director. “We hope our reward will bring someone forward with information on the person responsible for this animal’s injuries.”
The Investigators: The Hazard Police Department is investigating. Anyone with information about the case is asked to call (606) 436-2222.
Resources: The HSUS Animal Cruelty Campaign raises public awareness and educates communities about the connect
ion between animal cruelty and human violence while providing a variety of resources to law enforcement agencies, social work professionals, educators, legislators and families. The HSUS offers rewards in animal cruelty cases across the country and works to strengthen laws against animal cruelty.
The HSUS doubled its standard cruelty reward from $2,500 to $5,000 thanks to a generous donation from an HSUS board member. To see information on statistics, trends, laws and animal cruelty categories, click here.
Media Contact: Katie Feldman, 301-258-1563, kfeldman@humanesociety.org
