Reward could help identify and convict those responsible for clamping a puppy’s mouth shut in Crystal Springs, Florida
Sacramento, CA (December 15, 2005) – United Animal Nations today added $1,500 to a reward fund for anyone providing information that leads to the arrest and conviction of whoever fastened a rubber band around a four-month-old puppy, depriving her of food and water, and broke three of her legs. With UAN’s contribution, the total reward is now $6,500.
A carpenter found the puppy at a work site on December 5. Her mouth was deliberately clamped shut over her protruding tongue, which was infested with maggots. A veterinarian at the Crystal Springs Veterinary Clinic amputated 60 percent of the tongue; the puppy is now eating solid foods is still in serious condition and will need additional veterinary care. The carpenter who found her visits her at the clinic every day.
Many individuals collectively contributed $5,000 to establish the reward fund. UAN, through its Zig Zag Memorial Reward Fund, is offering an additional $1,500 to anyone who comes forward with information leading to an arrest and conviction in the case.
UAN president and CEO Jennifer Fearing said UAN issues the Zig Zag Memorial Reward to raise awareness of the need for harsher punishments for animal cruelty crimes. “Our society can no longer dismiss such horrible and hateful crimes against innocent animals,” Fearing said. “Research has shown time and time again that people who abuse and kill animals are highly likely to become violent toward humans.”
Anyone with information about this crime is encouraged to call the
Pasco County Sheriff’s Office at 1-800-706-2488.
Animal cruelty can be considered a third degree felony in Florida, punishable with a maximum of five years confinement and/or a $10,000 fine.
UAN’s Zig Zag Memorial Reward is named for a dog who was burned, beaten and tortured for hours before mercifully dying. The reward is offered in the hopes that it will break the wall of silence and encourage people to step forward with information in cases of animal cruelty.
About UAN: Founded in 1987, United Animal Nations (UAN) is the nation’s leading provider of emergency animal sheltering and disaster relief services and a key advocate for the critical needs of animals.
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