The HSUS Offers Reward In Galveston, Tex. Dog Tethering Cruelty Case

January 10, 2008

The Humane Society of the United States is offering a reward up to $2,500 for information leading to the identification, arrest and conviction of the person or people responsible for ­­­­­­­­­­­­­­causing a young dog to sustain serious injuries from being tethered for about six months in Galveston, Tex.

The Case:
News reports give the following account: On Jan. 3, a German shepherd-mix dog was taken to Galveston Island Humane Society with a rope embedded so deeply into her neck that it had cut through to her trachea. A veterinarian estimated the dog — now named Jasmine — was tied up for about six months. Jasmine is approximately 1 year old. She did not appear to suffer any permanent damage from the injury.

Animal Cruelty:
Getting the serious attention of law enforcement, prosecutors and the community 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.

“The American public cares deeply about the welfare of animals. Failure to provide basic levels of care represents an appalling betrayal of the trust our pets place in us. It demands accountability,” said Dale Bartlett, The HSUS’s deputy manager for animal cruelty issues.

The Investigators:
The Galveston Police Department is investigating. Anyone with information about the case is asked to call Sgt. Joel Caldwell at 409-771-5520.

Resources:
The HSUS Animal Cruelty Campaign raises public awareness and educates communities about the connection 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. Visit: humanesociety.org/cruelty.

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The Humane Society of the United States is the nation’s largest animal protection organization — backed by 10 million Americans, or one of every 30. For more than a half-century, The HSUS has been fighting for the protection of all animals through advocacy, education and hands-on programs. Celebrating animals and confronting cruelty — On the web at humanesociety.org.