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Case ID: 18487

Classification: Mutilation/Torture, Vehicular

Animal: dog (non pit-bull)

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Failure to provide vet care, leg amputation
Bakersfield, CA (US)

Incident Date: Wednesday, Aug 31, 2011
County: Kern

Charges: Misdemeanor, Felony CTA
Disposition: Alleged
Case Images: 1 files available

Alleged:
» Alberto Castaneda
» Maria Banuelos

Case Updates: 1 update(s) available

Two people have been arrested on felony charges following a horrific case of animal abuse in Kern County.

51-year-old Alberto Castaneda and 59-year-old Maria Banuelos were arrested around 9:00 PM Wednesday night, after animal control officers visited their home on Weedpatch Highway and found a black lab with a bloody leg. The dog was found tied to a post, dehydrated and with dirty water.

The county animal control veterinarian believes the dog was severely injured in a car crash and that's when the owners tried to amputate part of the dog's leg. The dog's injures are severe. Both sides of his pelvis are fractured and his hip is dislocated.

"No animal, no person, and no living creature deserves to be abused in the manner that this animal was abused," explained Matthew Mass, Interim Division Manager, Kern County Animal Control.

The Kern County Animal Control Veterinarian believes the owners tried to treat the dog on their own and cut off part of his left back leg.

"This person did not have the proper equipment and drugs to treat this animal," explained Dr. Cynthia Martinez.

The lab is now in stable condition at a local vet hospital.

"Just imagine a 70 pound dog getting hit with the force to be able to break both sides of his pelvis that's very painful and not getting the care, just horrendous to think about the pain," continued Martinez.

The Friends of the Kern Animal Shelters Foundation is raising money for the dog. If he gets the go ahead, the dog will travel to Los Angeles for surgery, which will cost at least $8,000.

If you would like to help by donating, you can go to www.FriendsofKernShelters.org You can also mail donations to: Friends Foundation P.O. Box 11494 Bakersfield, CA 93389.

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