Dog Shot In Head In CT, $6,000 Reward Offered For Information

WATERBURY, CT — A dog named Gracie spent about a week wandering the streets of Waterbury before rescuers discovered she had been shot in the head, leaving bullet fragments embedded in her face, according to animal advocates.

Now, two Connecticut animal rescue organizations are offering a combined $6,000 reward for information leading to the arrest and prosecution of whoever shot her.

Desmond's Army Animal Law Advocates and Army's Legacy Animal Rescue and Sanctuary announced the combined reward as Waterbury police investigate the shooting. Desmond's Army is contributing $5,000, while Army's Legacy is offering another $1,000.

Gracie, a tan-and-white female pit bull mix, was spotted wandering near Fulton Park before Waterbury Animal Control, with help from the CT Dog Gone Recovery Volunteer Network, rescued her on Oct. 30, police said.

After her rescue, X-rays revealed bullet fragments embedded in her face.

The bullet fragmented upon impact, and removing the pieces would require taking out significant portions of Gracie's sinus tissue, according to Waterbury Woof Pack, a nonprofit that has helped coordinate her care.

Veterinarians determined the fragments should remain in place. Her wound cannot yet be fully closed, and infection remains a significant concern, advocates said.

Despite the severity of her injuries, Gracie continues to receive veterinary care and is showing signs of improvement each day, according to police.

Gracie will continue her recovery at the Animal Rescue Foundation in Terryville.

Meanwhile, Waterbury police said detectives are actively investigating the circumstances surrounding Gracie's injuries.

Desmond's Army and Army's Legacy are asking anyone who knows where Gracie may have lived, who previously cared for her or who may be responsible for shooting or abandoning her to come forward.

Anyone with information is asked to contact the Waterbury Police Department Detective Bureau at 203-574-6941 or the anonymous Crime Stoppers tip line at 203-755-1234.

Waterbury Woof Pack has also organized a fundraiser to help cover Gracie's veterinary expenses.