An abused puppy was found in Santee. Photo: County Animal Services
SAN DIEGO–An abandoned abused puppy found Wednesday night in Santee is recovering at county animal shelter.
The 3-month-old terrier had injuries from what appeared to have been rubber bands or some other material that had been wrapped around his snout. The cuts from the bands were through the flesh on the dog’s snout. The little dog was brought to the animal care facility in Bonita where he was examined by medical staff and treated, according to Tracy DeFore, County of San Diego Communications Office.
“There’s no question this puppy has been abused,” said County Animal Services Director Dan DeSousa “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.”
The person who called Animal Services said she was at a fast food restaurant when an orange Dodge Charger stopped nearby, paused for a second and then pulled away. The puppy ran away from the spot where the car had stopped and hid under another vehicle.
DeSousa says it appears the bands were removed from the dog’s snout several days before the puppy was found. The wounds are starting to heal and the six-and-a-half pound puppy did not have any other injuries.
The dog didn’t have any identification so he will go up for adoption once he’s fully recovered.
Based upon the seriousness of the dog’s injuries, the department may start an animal abuse investigation. Anyone with information on the case can call the department at (619) 498-2305.  If convicted of animal cruelty, a suspect could face up to three years in prison, a fine of up to $20,000 or both.
