8 puppies duct taped in box, 6 die
Bozeman, MT (US)

Incident Date: Saturday, Oct 9, 2010
County: Gallatin

Disposition: Open

Suspect(s) Unknown - We need your help!

Six puppies are dead after a woman found them inside a cardboard box bound with duct tape sitting by a garbage can at the Holiday store at 19th and Durston in Bozeman.

The box contained eight Heeler/ Aussie puppies. The puppies were all alive when they were found, but six that were sick died after they were taken to a veterinarian. The other two that did not die "appear to be holding their own," Bozeman Police Department Animal Control Officer Kathy Middleton said. They are being kept at the private foster home.

"At this point they appear to be healthy, but I'm not sure about long-term damage," Middleton said.

A woman had stopped at the gas station and was putting air in her tire when she heard whimpering and crying, Middleton said. When the woman investigated she found the duct-taped box with the puppies inside.

Authorities do not know how long the puppies were there, Middleton said.

Bozeman police are seeking any information leading to the identification of the person or persons who left the box at the store on Oct. 9. The person or persons responsible could face cruelty to animal charges, but any possible charges would be determined by the county attorney's office, Middleton said.

"If anybody has any information and is willing to come forward we'd love it," Middleton said.

Middle added that animal control officers do not see this sort of cruel act often, because there are so many resources in the area, noting that if someone has an unwanted pet it can be taken to the animal shelter.

"We're just hoping someone will come forward," she said.

Anyone with information is asked to call Animal Control 582-2249, the Bozeman Police 582-2000 or CrimeStoppers at 586-1131 to remain anonymous.

If you have information on this case, please contact:
582-2249, 582-2000,

References

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