Abused Puppy Found Abandoned In Santee

SANTEE, CA – A puppy found abandoned in Santee is recovering Friday from injuries to his snout, according to San Diego County Animal Services. The 3-month-old terrier was treated at the county's shelter in Bonita for cuts sustained possibly from rubber bands or some other material wrapped around his snout.

"There's no question this puppy has been abused," said County Animal Services Director Dan DeSousa. "Perhaps it was a misguided attempt to stop the little dog from barking, but pet owners should not stoop to these steps as there are other options open to them, like training."

County Animal Services was contacted Wednesday after someone spotted the pup hiding under a vehicle near a fast food restaurant.

It appears the bands were removed from the dog's snout several days before he was found, DeSousa said. The wounds have started to heal, and the 6.5-pound puppy did not have any other injuries.

The dog also did not have identification, so he will be available for adoption once he is fully recovered.

According to County Animal Services, because of the dog's injuries, the department may start an animal abuse investigation.

Anyone with information on the case is asked to call the department at 619-498-2305. If convicted of animal cruelty, a suspect could face up to three years in prison, a fine of up to $20,000 or both.

Photo credit County Animal Services