San Diego Man Charged with Felony Animal Cruelty after Dog Loses Sight
SAN DIEGO- The San Diego Humane Society announced on Thursday that a San Diego man who allegedly abused and neglected his 11-year-old poodle was charged with felony animal cruelty.
Freddy the poodle when he was found
On November 19, officials from the Humane Society and Society for the Protection of animals responded to a call regarding the welfare of a dog. The caller reported having seen Oswaldo Velasquez kicking a small white dog that seemed to be in poor condition. Upon inspection, the dog, Freddy, was indeed in bad shape. Freddy’s fur was severely matted. Also his right eye appeared to be infected and was protruding from the socket. Based on Freddy’s condition and the allegations of abuse, he was impounded under protective custody to the San Diego Humane Society and SPCA.
The dog was evaluated by medical staff and treated for his injuries. Unfortunately, even with treatment, Freddy lost vision in both eyes due to the nature of the injuries he sustained. Freddy was rehabilitated and when healthy, adopted into a loving home on January 8, 2013, according to officials.
Freddy after treatment. He remains blind, but is with a loving family.
On January 15, Velasquez was arraigned and charged with a felony count of PC 597(b) animal cruelty and on misdemeanor count of 597(f) for failure to provide veterinary care. He faces a preliminary hearing on February 25. The San Diego Humane Society led the investigation of this crime, following the tip they received.
“We rely on information from the community about suspected animal abuse or neglect. We look into every single report of suspected abuse that we receive, which equates to more than 2,000 per year,” said Dr. Gary Weitzman, president of the San Diego Humane Society and SPCA. “These tips are so important to be able to seek justice for animals who cannot defend themselves.”
Read More:
Fox5: Man charged with cruelty to poodle
San Diego Pets Magazine: San Diego Resident Charged with Animal Cruelty and Neglect
