Associated Humane Societies is offering a $500 reward for information leading to the arrest and conviction of the individual that committed the heinous act of cruelty against a sweet, defenseless puppy in Newark on August 19th.
According to AHS officials, animal control for the city of Newark received the call at 3:51 p.m. to go out to the Grafton Avenue apartment complex to retrieve a puppy that was abandoned.
Officials at the ACO said they spoke to a witness at the scene who stated that when she saw a car pull in, she assumed they were dumping trash, but there was a puppy tied to the fence when they pulled away.
Unfortunately, there was no opportunity to get the license plate of the vehicle, the witness said. When the puppy arrived at the AHS Newark facility, staff were horrified at the sight of this poor, young female dog.
"You can't look at her and not wonder what transpired in her young life to arrive in the sad, neglected, starved state that she's in," AHS officials said.
"Our veterinarian estimates her to be approximately five months old and sadly, she weighs just 10 pounds. She was covered in urine and feces, as well as blood."
According to AHS officials, an examination revealed the puppy to be extremely dehydrated, so fluids were immediately administered.
Puncture wounds were discovered under crusted scars, which are likely the result of bites from another animal, and her teeth are in poor condition for such a young dog.
"Her overall body condition is deplorable, but despite this, she has a strong appetite and is grateful for all of the help that she's receiving," according to AHS officials. Officials said staff named her Petunia and she is resting comfortably on many soft, clean blankets in one of our administrative offices.
"She is probably the happiest, safest, and most cared for that she's ever been, and we will do everything in our power to ensure that she has every chance at living a long, full, happy life in a wonderful home once she has recovered from the terrible treatment that she endured," said AHS officials.
If you have any information in this case, don't hesitate to get in touch with our AHS Newark facility at 973-824-7080 or email: newark@ahsppz.org.
Would you please donate on behalf of Petunia and the many others like her that come through our doors in desperate need of help HERE?