COLORADO SPRINGS — A little dog named Cooper could easily want nothing to do with people, but instead he curiously sniffs nearby people while getting an occasional pat on the back or scratch behind his ears. "The fact that he went through what he did and he still is an incredible dog. It's, it's amazing. It's really hard to put into words," said Humane Society of the Pikes Peak Region (HSPPR), Director of Veterinary Services, Julie Crosby. Cooper is dealing with serious injuries from animal abuse.
He was rescued back in December after reports of abuse from neighbors. HSPPR Animal Law Enforcement officers found Cooper with injuries consistent with on-going abuse. There were scabs on his paws likely from being dragged. He was clearly in pain if his tail was touched. One of his sides swollen. "Multiple fractures on his ribs. They were in various stages of healing, so that was what's consistent with the dog being abused over a period of time,” said Director of Animal Law Enforcement, Jamie Norris.
The one and half year old terrier mix is also newly blind. It appears the result of trauma to both his eyes. "We are hopeful that he might have the chance at regaining some vision in one eye, he's actually going to be seeing a specialist." There hope that surgery could restore some vision.
A 22 year old man who knows the owner faces a felony aggravated cruelty to animal charge. The owner is cited with a misdemeanor for the dogs unsafe conditions. Animal Law Enforcement responded to a report of abuse in October, but no clear evidence. Multiple witnesses stepping up in December got the dog to safety. “We were fortunate to where citizens did call us. They cared enough to give us a call," said Norris, “One individual even took some video of what he saw out there.” Neighbors are credited for giving a voice to a dog unable to speak for itself.
Cooper is currently, not up for adoption because he needs more medical attention. The Humane Socity has information on how to help him posted on its webpage.
