Reward Offered in Minnesota Pony Mutilation Case

November 8, 2007

The Humane Society of the United States is offering a $2,500 reward for information leading to the arrest and conviction of the person or people responsible for the recent mutilation of a pony in Long Prairie, Minn.

The Case:

On Nov. 3, Katie Symalla, 11, discovered her palomino pony, Savannah, lying dead in a field on the family's property. According to Todd County Sheriff's Office investigators, the 6-year-old pony's head was found extensively cut. The pony was missing an eyeball, deputies said. A veterinary examination revealed the perpetrator used a sharp instrument to remove all of the soft tissue on the left side of Savannah's face, including the lip, nostril and ear flap. Investigators are looking for a small white pickup truck that was seen the morning the dead pony was discovered.

Animal Cruelty:

The connection between animal cruelty and human violence is well documented. The HSUS First Strike Campaign raises public awareness and educates communities about this connection 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/firststrike.

The Investigators:

Anyone with information about the crime should call Todd County Chief Deputy Bryan Tebben at 320-732-2157 or 800-794-5733.

-30-

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.