WBEN.com reports that on February 15th of this year, a five-year-old Pug named Dylan was rushed to the Orchard Park Veterinary Hospital in Buffalo, New York. X-rays revealed that the animal suffered from at least seven broken ribs.
Dylan died as the result of the injuries. The hospital contacted the local SPCA shortly afterward, as it appeared that blunt force trauma, dealt by a heavy object or a kick, was responsible for the injuries, the news source reports.
On September 2nd Adam Shevins was charged with killing the dog, who belonged to his girlfriend. It appears that Shevins' alleged attack on Dylan could have been the result of a domestic dispute.
He faces one count of felony cruelty to animals and is due to be arraigned on September 7th.
The American Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals contends there is a strong link between animal abuse and domestic violence. The organization reports that a New Jersey study found that in 88 percent of families in which a child was abused, animals had been mistreated as well.
Witnesses can play an important part in protecting animals. The ASPCA states that if individuals observe malnutrition or physical wounds on a pet, they should report these signs to authorities.
WBEN.com reports that on February 15th of this year, a five-year-old Pug named Dylan was rushed to the Orchard Park Veterinary Hospital in Buffalo, New York.