UPDATE: Another arrest made in animal cruelty case after dog was found in lake tied to a rock
When a woman found a dog struggling to survive in the River Trent, she had no idea what was about to unfold. She was able to help the struggling dog from the water. It was then that she discovered the horrible truth, the dog had been intentionally left to drown in the river. Around its neck was a carrier bag with a large stone inside, put there to make sure the dog would drown in the river.
The dog was helped from the river by a kind stranger
After being rushed to a local vet by the police, the dog was treated. It was also discovered that the Belgian shepherd had a microchip and was named Bella. Nottinghamshire Police were quick to describe the incident on the department’s social media:
The police respond to the incident
The Nottinghamshire Police made a statement on Facebook following the dog’s rescue:
“This was an evil and nasty thing to do to this poor dog and we are making every effort to find out who is responsible. We are lucky that the kind member of the public found and rescued her.
“If anyone has dash-cam or CCTV footage of vehicles in Long Lane that may show who was in the area at the time that would be really helpful.
“We are working with the RSPCA and are conducting microchip inquiries. Her name was recorded in 2010 as Bella on her microchip but it is possible, she may be known by another name if her owner has changed since then. If anyone recognizes her and knows who owns her please get in touch on 101, quoting incident number 103 of 6 January 2020.”
An arrest is made
An arrest soon followed as police took a 31-year-old woman into custody. The Nottinghamshire Police also commented on this development on their Facebook page:
“Whilst we have made an arrest we are still appealing for information about the circumstances of the incident, including how many people were involved. We are lucky that the kind member of the public found and rescued her.
Whilst the dog is still quite poorly, she has been showing some encouraging signs by eating so hopefully she will be on the mend. If you saw anything, or have CCTV or dash-cam footage in the area, please get in touch on 101, quoting incident number 103 of 6 January 2020.”
Another update on the case
Now it seems that another arrest has been made. A 32-year-old man was arrested roughly two hours after the woman. The couple were arrested on suspicion of animal cruelty. Police also reminded people, in their Facebook post, that the case was on ongoing investigation. As such, anyone with information on the case should refrain from revealing it publicly or face charges of contempt of court.
The RSPCA, which is also investigating Bella’s abuse, had this to say about the case:
“We would like to thank members of the public for their help in this investigation and our inquiries are continuing. We are pleased to say Bella is doing well in veterinary care and we plan to find her a foster home soon.”
What you should do if you witness animal abuse or neglect
If you witness animal abuse or neglect, you should report the individuals to your local police or animal control. You should also write down what the abuse was, where it happened, who committed it, and when. Never enter private property to help an animal. Here is a video of Bella as she recovers from her treatment at the hands of her abusers.
Please SHARE this with your friends and family.