Press Release

LA/SPCA Seeking Information Leading
To Arrest and Conviction in Animal Cruelty Case

New Orleans (11/29/07) – A call received by the Louisiana SPCA Wednesday afternoon led to the discovery in the 2300 block of Mazant Street of two dogs and one puppy, all bearing ropes or chains deeply embedded into their body. The wounds of the puppy, a three-month old male chow mix, were so severe that he had to be immediately euthanized. The animals, found near an abandoned two-story house, were also emaciated.

With no owner or owners coming forward, the LA/SPCA is offering a cash reward for information leading to the arrest and conviction of any individual or individuals responsible for the crime. If found or convicted the person or persons responsible will be charged with animal cruelty.

The puppy was found with a rope embedded 3-4 inches deep behind its front legs. The wounds were raw, open and deeply infected. The second dog, a male chow mix, that appeared to be the puppy’s father, was found with a rusted, metal chain embedded 2-3 inches around its torso area. The third dog, a female Lab-chow mix was found without a chain or rope but exhibited deeply embedded collar markings on her neck.

Ana Zorrilla, CEO of the Louisiana SPCA said, “It’s extremely disturbing to imagine the suffering these animals endured. The wounds suggest that these animals suffered severe trauma, were neglected, and left to fend for themselves.”

The adult male and female dogs are currently being cared for and sheltered in the LA/SPCA shelter clinic. If the male dog does survive the severity of his wounds, he will reportedly require extensive surgery.

LA/SPCA humane officers, led by Director of Humane Law Enforcement, Kathryn Destreza, are investigating the crime and asking potential witnesses to step forward. Destreza said, “The fact that the puppy was still alive when we found him was amazing, and that he was so trusting after being treated so horribly speaks volumes about the unconditional love of companion animals.”

To report animal cruelty, contact the LA/SPCA at 504-368-5191, ext. 100. The public can also report suspected cruelty or request an investigation on the LA/SPCA’s website at: http://www.la-spca.org/forms/investigation_request.htm.

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The Louisiana Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals is an organization devoted to improving the lives of animals and eliminating the homelessness, neglect and abuse that signal animal suffering. Chartered in 1888, our history has been paved with an understanding that only through an improved human-animal ethic can we better the lives of companion animals and that of our community. Our programs and services are infused with the highest standards of care and compassion.

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