Dog used as bait, left to die in plastic bag
Rockford, IL (US)Incident Date: Friday, Oct 6, 2006
County: Winnebago
Disposition: Open
Suspect(s) Unknown - We need your help!
Willow is a 4-month old Labrador mix and on Oct 20, she seems to be in good spirits. But just two weeks ago she was found on a porch in a plastic bag, nearly dead. Gary Longanecker with Winnebago County Animal Services says, "Based on the severe injuries of the animal it's our consensus that this was a puppy that was used as bait in the training of dogs to fight." Rockford Police Deputy Chief Michael Booker adds, "Occasionally we'll get some information about an abandoned house or vacant house that might be used for fighting dogs."
Sometimes fights take place right in someone's back yard. The disturbing part is it usually starts with a bait dog. Longanecker says, "And they take that small puppy and place it in the environment with at least one or two other dogs to teach those other dogs to fight to the death."
Experts say more than likely, that's what happened to Willow. She's now recovering. If they find who's responsible, Longanecker says they will prosecute. "This is absolute, felony level animal abuse. State statute provides that that's not allowable."
For now, Willow's case is open. And the process to find a good home continues. Hopefully this sad story of abuse will have a happy ending.
If you'd like to report animal neglect or abuse, give animal services a call at 319-4100. If you have information on this case, please contact:
Animal Services
319-4100
References
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