On Tuesday, May 22, 2012, the Valencia County Animal Control Department rescued a stray dog in the El Cerro Mission area that had become trapped beneath a porch when the chain attached to his neck became entangled. The dog weighed 46 pounds and was encumbered with 24 pounds of chain (over half his weight); the neck fur under the collar had been worn away, and he was malnourished and dehydrated.
This is cruelty: Dog burdened with half his weight in chains. Visit our Train: Don't Chain page for more about our work in New Mexico's communities.
Valencia County Animal Control Supervisor Erik Tanner called in the Valencia County Fire Department to cut the chains off, and they also gave subcutaneous fluids to the dehydrated dog. Tanner intends to pursue animal cruelty charges against the dog’s owner, if found. Tanner issued this statement: “While containing your dog by chain or tether is allowable in Valencia County, animal cruelty is prohibited. Anyone burdening a dog with unreasonably heavy chains will be prosecuted by this department.”
Animal Protection of New Mexico is offering a reward of up to $1,500 for information leading to the arrest and prosecution of those responsible for this dog’s care. If you have any information regarding this animal, please call the New Mexico Attorney General's Animal Cruelty Hot Line at 877-5HUMANE (877-548-6263). Callers may remain anonymous.
Animal Protection of New Mexico's mission is to advocate for the rights of animals by effecting systemic change, resulting in the humane treatment of all animals.
