Puppy Loses Leg After Severe Beatings

The SPCA is investigating a case of animal abuse involving a five-month old puppy beaten so severely that his skull was fractured twice. The puppy had a broken jaw, fractured ribs and his front leg was amputated in emergency surgery after it was broken twice.

Animal officials say five-month-old Beau is recovering – and lucky to be alive. Now they are asking the public for help.

The SPCA is hoping that anyone with information on the animal cruelty case will step forward. There is a $500 reward for information leading to the arrest and prosecution of the suspect or suspects involved.

The beatings took place in the neighborhood of 46th Street North and 57th Avenue North in St. Petersburg, according to the SPCA.

The SPCA has had an open cruely case on Beau since June 22. A good Samaritan rescued the dog after Beau allegedly suffered subsequent beating after an initial report was made.

Investigators are now trying to get the evidence to bring a case against those who may be responsible.

According to SPCA Tampa Bay: "Jill Purl, SPCA Tampa Bay humane officer, responded to a plea for help from the woman who rescued Beau and got him life-saving medical care. SPCA's role in this case includes obtaining evidence to assist law enforcement in building a case against the person who hurt the dog."

If you have information, call the SPCA's 24-hour animal abuse hotline: 727-586-3591, ext. 135. The reward is made possible through an ASPCA grant.

"Our hearts break at the abuse this young animal has suffered in only 5 months of life," said Nora Hawkins of the SPCA. "Beau’s injuries were extensive and show a pattern of abuse. Miraculously Beau is alive and healing."

Already, there has been an outpouring of support on the SPCA's Facebook page:

"Poor baby, how cruel. We need stronger laws on animal abuse. No probation (and) prison time," wrote Linda Hetue.

"I will foster if you need help," offered Jackie Schwab.

"I hope they find and proseute the person who is responsible for this," wrote Giselle Rodriguez.