CRAWFORDVILLE, Fla. -- The reward has been increased for information that leads to the arrest of the person responsible for shooting a puppy and leaving it for dead.
See release from Wakulla County Sheriff's Office:
CASH REWARD INCREASED IN ZEKE THE DOG SHOOTING INCIDENT
The Wakulla County Sheriff’s Office has increased the cash reward offered for information that leads to the arrest of the subject who shot Zeke the German shepherd mix who was found badly injured along Shadeville Highway in June, according to Sheriff Charlie Creel.
A passing motorist called Wakulla County Animal Control on June 3 and reported the injured animal. Zeke was shot in both back legs and left to die.
Two concerned citizens have contributed a total of $600 that will be given to anyone who comes forward and provides the information that leads to the arrest of the dog shooter.
Zeke continues his recovery under the watchful eye of Wakulla County Animal Control Officer Bonnie Brinson. His condition has improved although he may never have full use of both of his back legs.
Zeke is estimated to be approximately seven months old. He is scheduled for orthopedic surgery with Dr. Norm Griggs at Shepherd Spring Animal Hospital in Crawfordville.
Anyone with information about the dog shooting is asked to contact the Wakulla County Sheriff’s Office at 745-7100 and request a detective from the Criminal Investigations Division.
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CRAWFORDVILLE, Fla. (WTXL) -- Wakulla County deputies are trying to figure out who left a puppy on the side of the road after being shot in both of his legs.
Florida lawmakers just passed a bill this past legislative session aiming to crack down on this.
Wakulla County animal officers say its not uncommon for pets to be dropped off on the side of the road, but they say they've never found one that's been shot.
Its the sound of pain and agony from a nearly four-month old golden shepherd that has Wakulla County Animal workers on a mission to find out who abandoned him.
"It was a very heinous, heinous act, shooting a malnourished dog," said Dr. Guhrt.
Dr. Reed Guhrt has been treating the puppy they named Zeke since animal shelter found him shot in both of his legs last Thursday.
"There's a possibility that this leg will have to be amputated because pieces of his bones are just missing, there are no bones left," said Dr. Guhrt.
Zeke was also covered with ticks and fleas when they found him. Dr. Guhrt says he was shot with a high caliber gun and now he can barely walk.
"The dog obtained some serious injuries and somebody caused it to an animal and didn't have any respect to an animal life," said Dr. Guhrt.
Its tragic incidents like this that prompted Florida lawmakers to unanimously pass tougher animal cruelty laws, that may carry fines of up to $10,000 and or misdemeanor and felony charges. Governor Rick Scott hasn't signed the bill, but it would take effect on July 1st if he signs it or allows it to become law without his signature.
Mark Carter, a Wakulla County animal control officer says they support the law hoping it will take effect this summer.
"Hopefully when you toughen up on animal cruelty or animal abuse or animal neglect maybe that puts something in their minds that says, hey I think to think twice before I do this," said Carter.
Who harmed Zeke is still a mystery, but Dr. Guhrt says the good news he's on his way to recovery.
"Everyday he's coming to the office he appears to be doing better and better," said Dr. Guhrt.
Wakulla County animal control officers say if know of any animals being abused or know anything about this particular case you're urged to contact them or the sheriff's office. Also, the Crawfordville Animal hospital is accepting donations for Zeke. Call 850-926-2089.
