Case Snapshot

Case ID: 14082

Classification: Neglect / Abandonment

Animal: dog (non pit-bull)

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Dog severely neglected, left in heat
Lakeport, CA (US)

Incident Date: Thursday, Jul 10, 2008
County: Lake

Disposition: Alleged
Case Images: 2 files available

Abuser names unreleased

Animal Care and Control Officer found a 10-year-old German shepherd, named Luke, with no food, water or shelter, lying in the direct sun and unable to move. What's more, the 10-year-old, 120-pound dog could not stand, and was dragging his hindquarters when he did try to move, Johnson said.

By attempting to drag himself across the yard, Luke had suffered wounds, which Johnson said were open and filled with maggots.

Johnson said Luke was in pain, and his fur was matted and filled with stickers and foxtails. The person who reported Luke to authorities alleged he had been in that condition for weeks, and the owner � whose name officials haven't disclosed � hadn't taken him to the vet.

Wood impounded Luke and took him to Clearlake Veterinary Clinic where he received emergency care.

However, Wood said Friday that he had checked with the veterinarian that day, and Luke's prognosis wasn't looking promising.

�He could go either way as far as making a full recovery or not,� said Wood. �He's 10 years old so his age is working against him right now.�

Luke also is extremely overweight, which is complicating his recovery, Wood said.

Wood said he'll know more about Luke's outlook on Monday. At that time, if Luke still can't stand on his own, it will be up to the veterinarian to decide if it's more humane to euthanize the dog.

�From what I've seen, it doesn't look good, though,� he said.

Cases against the owners are being referred to the District Attorney's Office. Wood said they'll face animal cruelty charges.

References

• « CA State Animal Cruelty Map

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