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Dog fighter sentenced to 50 years with 15 to serve in prison

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A Polk County, Georgia dog fighter was sentenced to 5o years with 15 years to serve in prison Judge Richard Sutton decided on Tuesday afternoon. Devechio Rowland was found guilty of 107 felony counts for dog fighting and 107 misdemeanor counts for animal abuse last month. Rowland faced a prison sentence of 642 years. He will also be on probation for 35 years.

 

According to WsbTv,  at least 107 dogs were described as “half-dead.” Disturbing video showed the dogs chained to trees nearly starved to death. Polk County Police Chief Kenny Dodd stated it was the worst case of animal cruelty the department had ever seen.

In 2010, Rowland was arrested on animal cruelty charges and an association with a dog fighting ring, but the case was dismissed after one of the main witnesses died.

At least 30 animal advocates were at the courthouse when the judge announced the sentence. Some of the onlookers cried while others were saddened that Rowland’s prison time  wasn’t at least 20 years.

Many of the dogs have since been rehabilitated adopted. Read the previous article here.

(Photos and video of dog fighter and dogs involved via Polk County Police Department)

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Teens charged for beating possum and her babies to death with a bat – read more here.

 

Starved and beaten, bait dog left to die has strong will to survive

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On Thursday evening, Shawn Wise and her ten-year-old daughter found a dying dog lying on the roadside in Prichard, Alabama. Although she reached out for the local police and the local animal control, no one responded. When Shawn went public on social media on her Facebook page, animal advocates began to reach out.

 

By nightfall, the dog was receiving veterinarian care at Medvet, located on Government Street. Dubbed Miracle and despite whatever atrocities the dog had endured, his sweet and gentle disposition surpassed his horrible and painful injuries.

Video #1 of Miracle’s injuries when he arrived at veterinary hospital:

Shawn has five dogs at this time and was not prepared to take on the financial burden, but she stated neither her heart nor her soul could allow her to leave the dog on the side of the road to die.

“He is at MedVet. The bill is up to $2500 right now,” Shawn wrote. “I have to pay $700 tonight. They think they can save him, but he will not be ‘pretty.’ He did not make a move when Dennis picked the maggots off of his face. I have cried to the point I am out of tears.”

Miracle’s veterinarians are convinced the dog had been used as a bait dog, and he is expected to need extended care.

“My ten-year-old daughter was there when we found him, and she named him Miracle. It would mean the world to me and my family for this dog to live and be an example of why animal cruelty must come to an end. In the event donations exceed Miracle’s vet bills, donations will be donated to the Animal Rescue Foundation (ARF) for another sweet pup with extraordinary needs,” Shawn wrote. (Make sure to reference Miracle)

By Friday morning, Miracle was already showing signs of recovering. His face is still being cleaned and one of the wounds on his leg will require stitches.

 

More news to follow as this sweet dog hopefully makes a complete recovery. Get well soon Miracle.

Support the GoFundMe account for Miracle here.

(Photos and video by Shawn Wise and Fox News)

 

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Prison time ordered for woman who pleaded guilty to animal cruelty -read more here.

 

 

 

 

 

 

Dog fighter charged with starving and abusing dogs guilty of 214 counts of cruelty

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A Polk County, Georgia dog fighter, charged with starving, abandoning and abusing  nearly 100 dogs chained up in the woods, has been found guilty of 214 counts of animal cruelty. Devechio Rowland was found guilty of 107 felony counts for dog fighting and 107 misdemeanor counts for animal abuse.

According to the AJC, in 2017, the Polk County Police Department received an anonymous tip about starving dogs kept on a property off Cashtown Road. That afternoon the police posted on their Facebook about the tragic discovery:

“Currently on scene of one of the worst animal cruelty of animal cases we have ever seen. Somewhere around 60 to 70 dogs…It’s hard to count; they are just tied to trees throughout the woods. None of these dogs are vicious. I have petted every one of them myself,” Chief Kenny Dodd wrote about the emaciated pit bull mixes discovered.

The dogs had been chained around trees. For the lucky ones, they were able to sleep in large plastic barrels flipped on their sides. No food or water was available, but every dog’s tail wagged as the deputies approached. Many of the dogs showed evidence of having been involved in dog fighting, Local rescues helped in rescuing the dogs, rehabilitating and treating them at veterinarians and preparing most of the dogs for future adoptions.

Rowland is scheduled to be sentenced on May 15.

Read previous article here.

Video of when the discovery was made and how friendly these dogs were:

 

(Photos of dog fighter and dogs involved via Polk County Police Department)

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Dog breeder who starved dogs has been sentenced to jail – read more here.

Dog breeder ordered to jail

Dog fight trainer using shock collars in abhorrent cruelty jailed

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A dog fight trainer in South Australia pleaded guilty to multiple charges of organizing and participating in dog fight training while using abhorrent techniques including shock collars, chains with weights and treadmills. Benn Christopher Hamilton, 39, pleaded guilty at Adelaide Magistrates Court and has been sentenced to seven months in prison in addition to the five-year, four month sentence he is presently serving for drug offenses.

According to AbcNews, RSPCA inspectors seized six of his American Staffordshire terriers found chained in Hamilton’s backyard in August 2016. The dogs suffered from broken teeth, fresh bite marks and scars all over their bodies. Veterinarians stated the bites and scars had been consistent with dog fighting. Tragically, the dogs were reported to have been so reactive, they were not able to cope, and the decision was made to humanely euthanize them.

In addition to the shock collars and other physical training equipment, injectable steroids, anesthetics and prescription drugs were found as well as dog fighting books and instructional videos. Marie Shaw, the attorney representing the RSPCA called Hamilton’s treatment of the dogs “abhorrent.”

“Dogs are often called man’s best friend and they rely on humans to feed them, house them and treat them well,” Ms. Shaw explained. “True it is that animals, and dogs in particular, can serve man in many ways so long as they are treated humanely and fairly. They do not deserve having man train them for entertainment and financial gain at the risk of injury and mortality.”

Hamilton’s lawyer told the court his client was remorseful and grieved over his dogs having been euthanized. The judge didn’t seem moved; extending Hamilton’s non-parole period to two years and seven months and ordering he be banned from owning any pets indefinitely. The RSPCA is seeking $35,000 for costs and compensation. That has been adjourned until June.

Hamilton is the first South Australian ever charged over dog fighting. The struggle to protect our dogs continues.

(Photos of Hamilton’s dogs with shock collars via Instagram)

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Adorable therapy dog cheers on Boston Marathon runners – read more here.

Brave dog leaps to defense of elderly owner victimized in violent attack – read the story here.

Update: Dimple, dog fight victim from St. Landry Parish improving

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On Tuesday afternoon, St. Landry Parish Animal Control & Rescue in rural Louisiana, received a heartbreaking call. An abandoned dog, clearly having had been part of a dog fight, had been dumped. He hid beneath an old deserted home. It was a heartbreaking call as Animal Control officers knew the dog, soon to be named Dimple, was seriously injured.

“He hurts. It’s bad,” were the words describing the dog, no one had any intentions of giving up Dimple’s chances to survive.

The dog was rushed to the Bellevue Veterinarian Clinic where his injuries continue to be treated. Just 48 hours after Dimple was found quietly lying under the foundation of an old home and had given up on life because his wounds hurt so much, his future looks brighter.

“Dimple wants to thank everyone. He’s giving y’all a big smile,” shelter manager Stacey  posted on Facebook with the dog’s latest photo. And yes, he does appear to be smiling.

According to Dimple’s update, his infected wounds from a dog fight have left him with holes all over his face and neck area. He has no sight in his right eye that suffered severe damage, and the veterinarian staff is working hard to help him maintain his vision in his left eye.

” Dr Kevin is very positive he will recover. He will have some major scaring. And facial disfigurement…..BUT HE WILL HAVE A CHANCE at a real LIFE…,” Stacey emphasized.


Donations can be called in to his vet team at 337-942-7126 or PayPal to Stacey.alleman@stlandryparish.org . Through everyone’s generosity, Dimple is able to receive the care he so desperately needs.
SLPAC OPELOUSAS LA 337-948-6184

Get well soon Dimple. You have a community behind you. St. Landry Parish Animal Control and Rescue wants to remind everyone to spay and neuter their pets. Why buy a dog at a pet store or from a breeder when so many wonderful furry friends are just waiting to be adopted? The shelter is overcrowded. Volunteer, foster or adopt. You will feel great for helping and the dogs and cats will welcome the attention.

Report any suspicions of animal cruelty. Be the voices for those who cannot speak.

Read previous story here.

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Man arrested after his German shepherd, who was wearing weights, drowned – read more here

 

 

 

Four dogs rescued from Philadelphia dog-fighting ring in progress

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On Saturday night, animal cruelty officers from the Pennsylvania SPCA broke up a dog-fighting ring in progress on the 1200 block of South 35th Street. Four dogs have been rescued – two “pitbull type dogs on Saturday night and two more dogs on Sunday morning left alone in vehicles.

According to the organization, 14 people have been arrested and officials also confiscated drugs, two guns, cash and a wooden open, bloodied ring used as the venue for the dog fights. The PSPCA’s Humane Law Enforcement team’s investigation led police to the location where they surveilled the property and observed a dog fight in progress. Both the PSPCA officers and Philadelphia police entered the property – rescuing the dogs and arresting the suspects.

The dogs that had been engaged in battle were transported to the PSPCA’s Erie Avenue headquarters where they underwent care and treatment for their deep wounds. Both dogs have been reported to be in stable condition and will remain in the custody of the PSPCA until their owners surrender them or a judge makes the decision where the dogs will go after the court case.

The other two dogs found on Sunday morning are also being treated.

“Cases like this remind us that while we may not always hear about it, dog fighting is still happening in the city of Philadelphia,” said Nicole Wilson, Director of the Humane Law Enforcement at the PSPCA. “Our team has boots on the ground 365 days a year, investigating cases like this, and working to bring those involved to justice. We are grateful to the Philadelphia Police Department for their assistance in this case, and will work to prosecute these offenders to the fullest extent of the law.”

Dog fighting crimes hold a felony charge. Anyone with additional information is asked to contact Pennsylvania’s SPCA’s Cruelty Hotline at (866) 601-SPCA. Tips can be left anonymously.

Be the heroes for those who cannot speak. Report all suspicions of animal cruelty.

(Photo courtesy of Pennsylvania SPCA)

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Recently in the Pet Rescue Report: Dead puppy dumped in suitcase in the woods

 

Three dogs found mutilated: Victims of dog fighting

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In the village of Cranfield, located in  Bedfordshire, England, the mutilated bodies of three dogs were discovered stuffed into garbage bags or just lying along a rural roadside. The disturbing discovery was made on Tuesday night by a concerned citizen. 

According to the Mirror, the three  dogs were identified through their foreign microchips, indicating the dogs had been imported into Britain, according to the League Against Cruel Sports, which has offered a £5,000 ($6,926) reward for information.

“We suspect these poor animals suffered serious physical and mental suffering while being torn apart in illegal dog fights,” stated Chris Luffingham, director of the League Against Cruel Sports. “Dogs involved in dog fighting suffer terrible injuries, both in the fights themselves and at the hands of  their vicious owners. Most will die in t he ring or soon after from their injuries.”

Two of the dogs were mastiffs and the third was a bully breed. Authorities stated two of the dogs had their ears cropped, and one of the dogs had his teeth filed down suggesting he had been used as a bait dog and left unable to defend himself. Dog fighting has been banned in the United Kingdom since 1835. Tragically, not unlike the United States where it is also illegal, the heinous “sport” and horrific form of dog abuse remains a growing problem.

Report dog abuse; don’t let this happen and turn your backs on these innocent animals. Be the voice for those who cannot speak. Be their voice and save a life. Anyone with information about this horrific crime is asked to call 01483 361108 or email crimewatch@league.org.uk ”

(Photos of mutilated bodies of dog fight victims via screenshots League Against Cruel Sports)

 

Rest in peace innocent dogs. We are sorry humans let you down.

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Recently in the Pet Rescue Report: Senior dog homeless for the first time in her life after owner’s health fails

Frozen dog left lying under rug on lawn of Amarillo Humane organization

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A dead, frozen dog was left lying under a rug on the front lawn of the Amarillo-Panhandle Humane Society on Wednesday morning. The dog’s body had been covered in blood in what was described by rescuers as injuries consistent with having been in a dog fight.

According to the Facebook page of the Amarillo Animal Management and Welfare, it is not known if the dog was dead or alive when he was abandoned just like trash:

The Amarillo-Panhandle Humane Society Rescue Coordination Team arrived early today for an APHS milestone: the first ever feline only rescue transport. However, they were greeted by a dumped animal, but the animal was already dead. It is clear to us that this animal suffered trauma wounds which may have led to the death of this animal. There is no evidence of care rendered but instead, was discarded on our sidewalk like a piece of trash. An Amarillo citizen has failed this animal.

AAM&W Director Richard Havens stated the way the dog had been left was disrespectful to the humane society, the management organization and the dog. In the NewsChannel 10 report, Havens stated everyone there fights for animal welfare and to find a dog thrown away  like trash when it is possible his life could have been saved is tragic.

Shelter personnel believe this particular dog had been purposely left on the front lawn as a response to recent efforts to curb dog breeding in the city.

“They drove by innumerable locations where they could have dumped it. But instead, they decided to come directly in front of the Amarillo-Panhandle Humane Society and dump it,” stated executive director Larry Milam. “I think their message was you can do all you want to try and limit the problem with animals, but you’re not going to stop us. We are going to do whatever we want, however we want to do it, whenever we want to do it and we don’t care how hard you try.”

The shelter is now reviewing surveillance video  to find the person responsible. Anyone with information is asked to call the shelter at 806.378.9032.

(Photos of frozen dog found in Amarillo shelter via AAM&W )

Rest in peace poor pup.

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Police searching for person who cut puppy’s tongue out

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Authorities in York, South Carolina are asking for the public’s help finding the person(s) who severely abused a young puppy and cut his tongue out earlier in November.

According to WbtvNews, an 18-month-old puppy was found in the area of Madison Street and Lowry Row on November 19 after a woman and her boyfriend witnessed what appeared to be a group of people fighting. When spotted, the group ran away. Police were dispatched to the area and discovered a cold and shivering puppy tied up to a tree.

Noah’s Arks Rescue immediately came to the dog’s aid:

“There are no words to describe the horror this sweet 18-month-old Lab/Pitbull Mix has endured. Animal Control in York County was called on Sunday about a dog that was tied to a four-foot pole off of O’Lowry Road in York, SC. The temperature dropped down to 30 degrees during the night, and this sweet pup was not picked up until Monday afternoon around 4:00 PM. He had no food or shelter,” the organization posted on their Facebook.

Briggs was then transported to a veterinarian hospital where he could not eat or drink; his tongue had been cut out. Apparently used for dog fighting, the dog suffered bite wounds over his face, feet and legs. A microchip revealed a past owner, but when contacted, the woman stated she had given the dog away to a man.

Dogs can lead good lives even after their tongues have been removed as a result of trauma. As his mouth heals, he is being taught how to eat raw meatballs that are very slippery. During this learning period, he is being fed bone broth with gelatin added; this is cut into cubes, and that is how he is learning to eat without a tongue.

York County continues their investigation. Anyone with information about dog fighting or knows anything about the past history of this dog, whose name was Kemba at the time, is asked to contact the York County Sheriff’s Department at 803.628.3059.

Doesn’t Briggs deserve justice? Someone must know something.

(Photos of Briggs via Facebook)

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Investigation by Animal Services of video showing dog on treadmill chasing a pig

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Miami-Dade Animal Services continue to investigate a video taken by a neighbor who is worried a dog could be in danger. According to News7, the exclusive video was turned over to Animal Services, and a neighbor, Odalys Fernandez, who lives behind the home, knows exactly what she witnessed. First she spotted a dog running on an apparently home made treadmill; the dog had his head down and appeared very tired.

“And then I saw a pig. There was a pig in there as well,” Odalys stated.

The pig had been in a separate cage in the backyard, and there was no way the dog would have been able to get to the animal, however it seemed as if the dog had been chasing the pig in the Southwest Miami-Dade backyard for a long period of time. In addition to the dog and the pig, there were four people in the backyard – including one young child. Several cages of dogs were also set along the perimeter of the yard.

Odalys is convinced the dogs were being trained to fight; why else would any dog be trained on a treadmill with another animal in front of it being chased.

“I like dogs and I like people and what they did to those dogs. I don’t like it. And when I saw that one dog with all the mosquitoes on top of the bite that he had…”

And then over a month ago, one morning the fence to the backyard was down and all of the dogs, their cages, the equipment and the pig were gone. Although Miami-Dade Animal Services has the video and the facts about the possible dog fighting training operation, nothing has been done – or at least the investigators aren’t commenting.

What a tragedy this could be for nine dogs and a pig.

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(Photo via screenshot of video) Check out the video courtesy of News7)