Update on Hope the dog

July 11, 2012.

PRESS RELEASE

Parker County Sheriff Larry Fowler is asking the public for any information leading to the arrest of suspect(s) involved in the torture of Hope, a pug-mix breed, 3 to 4-year-old female dog, found with her mouth taped shut and tongue protruding.

A concerned citizen notified the Sheriff’s Office of Hope, wandering in circles, over-heated and bleeding from five severe, intentional cuts through her muscles.

Hope is currently improving under Sheriff Fowler’s direction and the veterinarian care of Dr. Kevin Buchanan, DVM and his staff at theBowieDriveAnimalHospital.

Hope is receiving specialized care and treatment and has made a tremendous improvement. Staff members reported Hope is wagging her tail and eating well.

Vet Tech Rhonda Sears said, “She is truly inspirational and she amazes us each day.”

Hundreds of callers from all over theUnited Stateshave contacted the Sheriff’s Office and animal hospital pledging donations.

Sheriff Fowler said Tuesday the deliberate acts against Hope were horrendous and malicious.

“This story has touched the lives and hearts of so many people across the globe,” Fowler said. “We encourage the public to call the Parker County Crime Stoppers Hotline with any information about Hope. No matter how minor or insignificant the information may seem – we are seeking her owners, the suspects or Hope’s background and history.”

Crime Stoppers will pay up to a $1,000 reward for information leading to the arrest of the suspects involved. A guaranteed additional reward from individuals and business owners has totaled $9,000, for a total of $10,000.

Hope’s medical costs are also being taken care of with pledged donations. Many callers have inquired about adopting Hope. Sheriff Fowler and veterinarian staff have ensured Hope’s foster care and future home will be one of great care, where she is loved and pampered.

“We encourage the public to make certain their home is equipped to handle a pet,” Sheriff’s Animal Control Supervisor Karen Kessler said. “Factors to consider include other animals – if the pets will get along; terrain – is the pet going to be in-door- or out-door? Adequate food, water and proper shelter are vital to a pet’s health. Children also need to be considered before adopting a pet. Some animals may not be child-friendly.”

Sears echoed Kessler’s statement and added a special message to those who wanted to adopt Hope;

“There are too many ‘Hope’s’ out there,” Sears said. “I wish [animal lovers] would open their hearts to other Hope’s.”

To contact the Parker County Crime Stoppers hotline, call (817) 599-5555.