San Diego

Abused Puppy Found in Santee

Puppy has marks on snout where his mouth had possibly been bound shut

A three-month-old terrier was found abused and abandoned Wednesday in Santee and was taken to an animal facility in Bonita for treatment.

The puppy, weighing six-and-a-half pounds, has cuts on his snout from material digging into his flesh, possibly rubber bands, according to the San Diego County News Center. The material had been removed prior to the animal’s rescue.

County Animal Services Director Dan DeSousa said although the wounds were already healing when the animal was found, it was a clear case of abuse.

“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,” said DeSousa.

There were no other injuries found on the dog, according to a statement.

The puppy will be put up for adoption once he’s fully recovered because there was no identification, according to animal services.

The San Diego County Animal Services Department may launch an animal abuse investigation based on the seriousness of the injuries, according to a statement.

The department said a person convicted of animal cruelty could face a $20,000 fine, up to three years in prison or both.

Information on the case can be reported to County Animal Services at (619) 498-2305.

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