2 Dogs Shot in Abingdon, Community 'Horrified'

ABINGDON, MD – After two dogs were reportedly shot to death in Abingdon, the community is asking for help identifying who is responsible.

The owner of the dogs notified authorities after midnight Tuesday that she found her dogs shot, upon returning home to the 400 block of Autumn Harvest Court after a Memorial Day trip, according to the Harford County Sheriff’s Office.

A friend was watching Jack Russell terrier Chloe, 6, and pit bull puppy Blaze, 3 months, when the dogs ran out the door Saturday night, owner Jessica Oliver told ABC 2 News.

The dogs were deceased when found between the 2700 and 3200 blocks of Winters Run Road, Harford County Sheriff's Office spokesman Kyle Andersen told Patch.

The Humane Society of Harford County issued a statement Tuesday afternoon saying that it was “horrified,” imploring people to share tips with the Harford County Sheriff’s Office.

In Maryland, killing an animal is considered aggravated animal cruelty, a felony that is punishable by up to three years in jail and/or a maximum $5,000 fine.

Anyone with information about the death of the two dogs in Abingdon may call the sheriff’s office at 410-838-6600.

Andersen said that the cause of death of the dogs is currently under investigation.

The FBI began tracking incidences of animal cruelty nationwide in January 2016. Now the federal government is keeping tabs on cruelty against animals in a database just as it does in arson, burglary, assault and homicide cases. The goal is to develop a "more complete picture of the nature of cruelty to animals," according to the FBI.

Full Statement from the Humane Society of Harford County:

"We are horrified to learn about two dogs that were found shot to death...over the weekend. Our hearts and deepest condolences go out to the family of these sweet dogs. This occurred in the townhomes behind the Abingdon WalMart. Please, if you think you might have any information about this, contact the Harford County's Sheriff's Office at (410) 838-6600. We are sorry to have to relay this terrible news but hopeful that someone may have some info that will lead to the arrest of the perpetrator(s)."

Stock photo of paw print. Photo Credit: Morguefile.