Acid Attacks on Stray Dogs Spurs Widespread Outrage

People for the Ethical Treatment of Animals offered a $2,500 reward today for information leading to the person or people who severely burned a golden retriever, possibly with battery acid, in the Lancaster area.

Los Angeles County sheriff’s officials have begun an investigation in hopes of finding the person or people responsible. Three other dogs have been found with similar injuries in recent weeks, at least two of them also in the Antelope Valley, although investigators have not officially linked the cases. Two of the other dogs have died.

“It takes a dangerous lack of empathy to pour acid on a dog and leave him for dead on the side of the road,” PETA Senior Director Colleen O’Brien said. “PETA is urging anyone with information about this case to come forward now before anyone else is hurt.”

The dog, who has been named “Fergus,” was brought to a Lancaster animal shelter Aug. 11 and subsequently turned over to the Animal Medical Center of Southern California in West Los Angeles for treatment, with the help of the Southern California Golden Retriever Rescue Group.

Fergus was apparently taken to the shelter by a good Samaritan who found the wounded animal suffering from severe burns on its head and back.

Doctors at the Animal Medical Center said Fergus is making an almost miraculous recovery.

NBC4 reported Wednesday that one of its viewers had offered a $2,000 reward for information leading to the suspect or suspects.

Meanwhile, a Gofundme page was set up by the Golden Retriever Rescue Group in hopes of raising $10,000 to cover the dog’s medical costs. As of midday today, more than $19,000 had already been raised. Rescue Group officials said excess funds will be used to assist other dogs in the group’s care.

Another group created a petition on Petitionhub.com, demanding justice for Fergus.

“Please sign the petition and persuade the officials to make every effort possible to find the previous owner and press charges against him for animal cruelty and abuse. Make sure Fergus gets justice and spread his story. Urge anyone that has any information on this case to step forward and help catch the monster capable of this horrific act of animal abuse!

City News Service: Photo: Gofundme and Petitionhub.com