Chemical Burns Severely Injure Dog In Coachella Valley

COACHELLA, CA — An abandoned dog suffering extensive chemical burns that authorities are unsure were inflicted intentionally or by accident received veterinary treatment at the Coachella Valley Animal Campus in Thousand Palms today.

The male Australian shepherd mix was brought into the shelter by a good Samaritan and had a large section of its backside injured, as well as part of its tail missing, according to Riverside County Department of Animal Services spokesman John Welsh.

Veterinary technician Lori Stamp Brown was among the first shelter staff to care for the dog.

"The wounds were consistent with what we have seen with chemical burns,'' Brown said. "He was experiencing pain and was very uncomfortable with being touched.''

Welsh said the dog appears to be a stray, and it was unclear where he was injured, or the exact source. "It's uncertain if the injuries were accidental, or if someone purposely injured the dog in an act of cruelty,'' he said.

Department of Animal Services Director Julie Bank said she was troubled by the possibility that the dog was intentionally splashed with chemicals.

"We welcome any tips from the community and, meanwhile, we will continue to provide the dog with the treatment he deserves,'' Bank said.

The dog is receiving a regimen of antibiotics and other care to promote healing of his wounds, according to Welsh. Anyone with information was asked to call the agency at 951-358-7387.