A couple in Chesco, PA need your help to find the person responsible for shooting and killing their dogs. A reward is being offered for information leading to the arrest of the perpetrator.
The two beloved family pets- a 1 1/2-year-old German short-haired pointer named Emma and a 2-year-old mix of the same breed called Luna – had gone missing Sunday morning from a farm in Pocopson Township. That same afternoon they were found shot between the eyes approximately six miles away.
Rich Britton, spokesman for the Chester County SPCA, said the reward has grown from $500 to $11,000. Anyone interested in contributing to the reward fund may call the Chester County SPCA at 610-692-6113, Ext. 215. Checks made out to CCSPCA can be mailed to the agency at 1212 Phoenixville Pike, West Chester, Pa. 19380.
What a sad story, hopefully with the now sizable reward someone will be ‘motivated’ to turn in whoever committed this horrific crime.
Just when I think I’ve read every horrific thing possible another story comes to light. A firefighter in Ohio killed his dogs to avoid the cost of having to board them. No, I didn’t mistype.
COLUMBUS, Ohio (AP) — A judge has given a 90-day jail sentence to an Ohio firefighter who prosecutors say killed his dogs to avoid boarding them during a vacation with a girlfriend.
Forty-three-year-old David Santuomo of Columbus pleaded guilty Wednesday to two counts of animal cruelty and one count of possession of a criminal tool. That charge concerned a plastic bottle that authorities said was used as a rifle silencer.
Assistant Franklin County Prosecutor Heather Robinson said Santuomo shot his two mixed-breed dogs Sloopy and Skeeter multiple times on Dec. 3 after tying them to a pipe in his basement. She says he dumped the remains in a trash bin behind his firehouse.
Defense attorney Sam Shamansky called the crime an isolated event “totally out of character” for his client.
Well, I’m glad this was an “isolated event” and he only killed two dogs. What kind of ridiculous defense is that? So only doing this once makes shooting your dogs alright? Do you get some kind of “get out of jail free” card for the first offense?
As appalled as I am at the sentence I’m even more disgusted he still has a job. This man is a firefighter, a public servant, he deserves to be fired from his job. Is this a man you would trust to save your life, or someone that should be working for the public?
Santuomo may not have wanted to pay to board his dogs but I would be more than happy to put out a few dollars to extend his boarding time at the local jail.
Here’s another story which shows how little value the justice system places on the life of a dog, or in this case dogs.
In Greenville, SC. the worth of 5 dogs who died after being left in a hot SUV comes down to 19 hours of community service per dog for the offenders.
A mother and her son have been sentenced to 96 hours of community service after five dogs were found dead in their sport utility vehicle. Another dog in the SUV is in poor health.
Multiple media outlets reported that 44-year-old Tanya Dunlap and 20-year-old Chris Dunlap of Hoquiam, Wash., were convicted Tuesday of ill treatment of animals after waiving their right to an attorney and a jury trial.
Authorities say the dogs were in the Dunlap’s SUV, which was parked Monday at a state Employment Security office.
Tanya Dunlap told the judge she was trying to solve a problem with the employment office in Washington, while her son was supposed to watch the dogs.
South Carolina Human Society spokeswoman Kelly Graham called the punishment a slap on the wrist.
Convicted of ‘ill treatment’ of an animal? Five dogs died, that is not ill treatment, it’s murder. I am just astounded that you can kill five dogs and walk away with community service.
Phoenix was the victim of horrible animal cruelty, it happened on May 27th. I didn’t originally post the story because I try to keep a balance on the blog so it doesn’t become too depressing. However, when there is a chance that we can do something to help find the perpetrators or make the difference when it comes to getting justice I feel it’s important to get the word out.
In Baltimore, MD. a pit bull was set on fire and left to die. A Baltimore police officer came to her rescue but unfortunately the dog, despite medical treatment, didn’t make it. Two brothers were later arrested, due to their age they were charged as juveniles with animal abuse and cruelty.
“This was one of the most cruel things I’ve ever seen. It hurt me to my heart,” said Baltimore city police Officer Syreeta Teel, who used her sweatshirt to put the fire out.
Denise Griffin said her boys were taken in for questioning on Friday night. She said her sons could never do something like that and thinks it’s all about money.
“I know they didn’t do it. I keep hearing different things around the neighborhood about the dog ran up to there. The dog — nobody said the dog was right there. So, I feel as though I know my boys didn’t do it. It’s a reward out and then wasn’t nobody picked up around there until they said something about a reward,” Griffin said.
The reward grew to $24,500 by the end of last week.
“They didn’t do it. I would put my life on the line that they didn’t do it,” said the boys’ father, Charles Johnson. “If you’re on fire or anybody else is on fire, you’re going to take off running. That’s probably what the dog (did). Who knows where it was set on fire at.”
“You know, 17-year-olds, they’re going to get into a little something. But they wouldn’t set a dog on fire. I think one of them is afraid of a dog,” Charles Johnson said.
Can you say denial?
Martin Mersereau, director of the cruelty casework division of the People for Ethical Treatment of Animals, said he hopes the juveniles receive maximum penalties for the incident if convicted.
I have read many animal abuse stories, but I must tell you this is one of the most disturbing cases I have seen.
I received an email message telling the story of Sammy, the picture attached was enough to make you physically ill. It actually took me a few days to go to the site and read the story, it’s one that needs to be told.
I am constantly amazed at the undying spirit of animals, their unconditional love, and strength to survive. I am also amazed at man’s inhumanity to canine. Thankfully there are places like Noah’s Arks Rescue, they help restore my faith in humanity.
Noah’s Arks Animal Rescue is a group of individuals working to end the senseless killing of innocent animals in our shelters all across the country. Our loyal companions have become disposable, throwaway pets. All animals are born with equal claims on life and the same rights to existence. Our loving companion animals have the right to complete their natural life span. Our wish and lifelong hope is that society becomes educated in the ethical treatment of animals. We focus on animals that depend on us to fight for their right to life. Please, help those that cannot help themselves.
Sammy was a stray in Rains, SC. who was brought to Noah’s Arks Rescue. This is his story. It is not for the faint of heart.
This is one of the worst abuse cases I have seen in a while. Just when you think you are getting a handle on some of the abuse in this country to animals, something like this happens. It just tears your heart up in tiny little pieces that someone could intentionally do this to one of God’s gentlest creatures.
Meet SAMMY. Sammy showed up as a stray in Rains, SC. The family there started to feed him and he came around more regularly. He was a great dog that began to trust them and was around all the time. Two months ago he disappeared and when he returned this is how he looked. He has been tortured and both eyes have been punctured. He was taken to a doctor that thinks he was beaten so badly that his eyes burst and to Marion County shelter to see if someone could help them. The shelter recalled that someone had called and reported a dog wandering around for the last two day with it’s eyes bulging. That dog was Sammy. How he found his way back to this same house without eyes, we will never know.
He is going to our vet in Greenville, SC today and is scheduled to have surgery to have both eyes removed on Friday.
Since the original post on Noah’s Arks Sammy has had surgery, he is doing amazingly well. He has gone to a foster home for rehabilitation, is receiving a ton of love and care, and going on walks with his four-legged buddies. It truly is unbelievable.
Sammy’s surgery and rehabilitation have cost a tremendous amount of money. Noah’s Arks Rescue survives on donations, they could desperately use some help. When I was reading Sammy’s story I actually stopped and sent in a donation. I know how tough times are, but even if you can only donate a few dollars it could make a huge difference.
The monsters who did this have not been caught. I urge anyone who may have information to notify the proper authorities. I can guarantee whoever did this will not stop with a dog, they will go on to even worse (if that’s possible) crimes. These types of crimes are exactly why the law that was passed in Arkansas needs to be passed in every state. It makes torturing a dog, cat, or horse a felony on first offense.
Thank you in advance to all the Dogsters who generously give a donation to Noahs Arks Rescue.
In Forrest City, AR a dog shooter is on the loose. In less than a week two dogs have been shot, one resulting in death.
“Mozart,” a young Saint Bernard mix survived after he was shot at close range in the head. His owner, Terri Pittman says over the weekend, “Mozart” went for his usual walk to a neighbor’s house. But, she says he didn’t make it there and never returned. Pittman says she got a call from one of her neighbor’s Sunday night, telling her “Mozart” was under their carport and it looked like he had been shot in the face.
Pittman says, “He was covered in blood down the front of his chest. His eye was swollen shut and his face was two times its normal size. He looked horrible.”
Pittman says the vet removed 13 dove pellets from her dog’s face. He had a successful surgery and is on the mend. Six year-old Austin has been helping “Mozart,” with his recovery. He says, “We have to paint his sore spot with yellow paint and we have to give him two medicines to make him feel better.”
The other shooting being investigated by Forrest City Police took place on Virginia Circle, last Wednesday. The Fogg’s 10-year-old son was playing in the front yard with their Border Collie mix. He went in the house for a few minutes, he returned to find his dog shot. Unfortunately Shadow died from his wounds.
What a despicable and cowardly act, this person needs to be found.
If anyone has information on either of the dog shootings, call Forrest City Police at (870) 633-3434. There is a reward for information leading to an arrest or conviction.
* Mozart who will thankfully be alright. Pic courtesy of myeyewitnessnews.com.
I am very sorry to get this posting up so late, unfortunately I just received it. There is still time to send emails or call to show your support.
ACTION ALERT: Victor Rodriquez is up for parole January 28th – your help is needed!
Victor Rodriquez, the youth convicted of extortion in the Edna animal cruelty case, could be allowed to walk the streets again.
Edna needs us now more then ever. The Judge’s have been fabulous and we need to write them and let them know how much we appreciate their handling of this case, but we also need to politely remind them that we STILL have no information on Edna and Victor should not be allowed to leave juvenile hall.
There was no body found and Victor Rodriguez continues to state his innocence where Edna is concerned. Victor, therefor, was not charged with animal cruelty. Bill Whiting maintains that the night he received those dreadful life changing phone calls, he spoke to at LEAST three individuals — where are the other two? And most importantly, where is Edna? Why should Victor be allowed to walk the streets so soon after he allegedly kidnapped a dog and then attempted to extort her guardian?
TOO MANY questions remain unanswered and Victor has not even spent a year in juvenile hall.
Please politely ask the Judge’s to continue to pursue the truth behind Edna’s disappearance and to keep Victor locked up. We need to let them know that the public will not let this go. We will not stop our fight – we will continue fighting until their is Justice for Edna! Judge Rebstock was very sympathetic to Bill Whiting and Edna so please be sure to be polite and kindly ask him not to let Victor go!
Please write letters to both of the Judge’s and fax them to the numbers listed below:
Judge Dougherty (Administrative Judge Family Court Division)
Family Court Building
1801 Vine Street
Philadelphia, PA 19103
Fax: 215-686-4157
Judge Rebstock (Rodriquez trial Judge)
Family Court Building
1801 Vine Street
Philadelphia, PA 19103
Fax: 215-686-4229
Please remember to be polite and respectful! Nice, well written letters, often receive more attention and are taken more seriously. SEND LETTERS NOW — there is not much time!
Click here to learn more about the link between violence to animals and violent acts committed against people. Acts of cruelty and violence should NOT be tolerated.
If you are in Philadelphia on the 28th, feel free to bring signs and hold a peaceful protest in front of the Family Court Building.
Yesterday I posted the story about the puppy killed in Gwinnett, GA. A candlelight vigil is being planned by Southern Cross GSD Rescue and they need your help.
In order to make it happen they need dog lovers to unite, to make a commitment to attend and show their support.
Southern Cross is planning on holding a candlelight vigil for the killed pup. We need to get as many people there as possible. Please attend and ask your friends to come with you.
We are trying to get a feel for how many people will attend, and would greatly appreciate if you would send an email to Southern Cross GSD Rescue or Wanda at lakota@uga.edu letting us know if we can count on you.
The candlelight vigil is to be held on January 24th at 6pm. It will be located at the pavillion at Shorty Howell Park, near Party City in Duluth. The address is 2750 Pleasant Hill Road in Duluth, GA. It would mean great media coverage for this horrible crime. As dog lovers your help is needed!!
We are at $9,000.00 now for the reward, thanks!! I am hoping to hear from you.
PLEASE…get as many people as you can!
Please come together on January 24th to make it clear that this type of crime will not be tolerated in your community, that any person who commits this type of crime will not be allowed to get away with it. The person(s) responsible will be caught and prosecuted to the fullest extent of the law.
There has been such an overwhelming response to the story about Murphy, the dog left beaten in a park, so I wanted to let everyone know he’s going to his new home today.
The 9-year-old Australian shepherd who suffered severe head injuries after being bashed in the head with a sledgehammer is expected to be released from the veterinary clinic once the paperwork is done and the home is set up for his care, said Stephen Pope, veterinarian and medical director of Pets Are People Too in Dunwoody.
His destination: the Dunwoody home of Robert Kennedy, who found the dog near death in Murphy Candler Park on Dec. 2. It was Kennedy’s 60th birthday.
“The vet checked him out and said he only had a 10 percent chance of survival and it might be humane to put him down,” Kennedy said. “But I thought, ” ‘Today is my birthday. I can’t do that on my birthday.’ “
To the vet’s amazement Murphy not only survived, he’s now well enough to go to his new home. In order to be released they had to get Murphy eating again. He started with baby food, and while he isn’t eating dog food he seems to have no issues with rotisserie chicken. I think Murphy is going to be in for a pretty good life from here on out.
Today Murphy will be going home with his new owner, Robert Kennedy, the hero who found and helped save his life. He’ll be living with two other canine family members, and Kennedy’s daughter.
Murphy also has gifts waiting. A representative from Bill Jac dog food has pledged a month’s worth of chow for Murphy. A manager at the Westin at the Concourse wants to give Murphy one of the hotel’s “heavenly dog beds.”
“I’m just overwhelmed by the generosity of people, and I’m going to make sure that generosity is justified,” he said.
I think Mr. Kennedy’s generosity is overwhelming, good luck to him and Murphy. We wish them the best.
The Dogster Dog Blog is committed to tracking every story related to all foods recalls. You can count on us to keep you completely in the nose of every detail.
We're pet-lovers like you who want to keep you up-to-dog about everything canine. From news to expert advice to fun stuff, we sniff out the best squirrels of doggie happenings for you. The blog is brought to you by Dogster, Inc, makers of the hydrant-famous Dogster and the unnecessarily-feared Catster.
Subscribe
Many of this site's readers do so by subscribing to our RSS feeds. Some are quite popular
