A Houston man was recently caught on camera throwing a weight at his dog. The man then hit the animal several times while the dog was prone on the ground. The Houston SPCA has since intervened to rescue the pup.
Houston man abusing dog caught on video
According to FOX 26, someone filmed a man abusing his dog at a home on the 400 block of Aurora Creek. In the video, a shirtless man picks up a weight and throws it at a Belgian Malinois. The dog tries to run away, but the outdoor area is fenced. The man follows the dog and yells in the dog’s face. Then, while the dog is on their back on the ground, the man hits the dog repeatedly. Throughout the video, the dog howls. The pup is clearly afraid and in pain. Another dog in the yard comes up to the man, almost as if trying to figure out what is going on.
The Houston SPCA teamed up with the Waller County Sheriff’s Office and Waller County Animal Control to rescue the dog from the home. The pup is now under the care of veterinary staff. An investigation into the man in the video is ongoing. A judge will hear the case next week. Under Texas law, animal cruelty is a felony. Those convicted of this crime face a $10,000 fine and up to two years in prison.
Whoever filmed this horrific incident likely saved this dog’s life. Video evidence is particularly helpful in inspiring action on animal abuse cases.
“If you are able to safely obtain photos or video to report animal cruelty, it can be very useful against those who commit these crimes in public view,” Jay Chase, chief cruelty investigator at the Houston SPCA told the news outlet. “A life can be saved just by reporting animal cruelty.”
In Houston, you can report animal cruelty by phone at 713-869-7722 or online at www.houstonspca.org.
What to do if you witness dog abuse
If you ever find yourself witnessing someone abusing a dog, it’s crucial to act promptly and responsibly. Here are some tips to help you navigate this kind of situation:
- Ensure your safety: Stay at a safe distance to avoid confrontation.
- Do not escalate the situation: Avoid yelling or aggressive behavior.
- Call for help: Dial 911 or your local emergency number to report the abuse.
- Gather information: Note the abuser’s appearance, location, and the dog’s condition.
- Take photos or video: If safe, document the abuse as evidence.
- Don’t intervene physically: Confronting the abuser may worsen the situation.
- Contact animal control: Report the incident to local animal control or the non-emergency police line.
- Reach out to animal rescue organizations: They can provide assistance and resources.
- Share information: Raise awareness by posting on social media or contacting local animal welfare groups.
- Offer support: If you can do so safely, approach the abused dog and offer comfort until help arrives.
Remember, your safety is a top priority. Reporting the abuse and providing authorities with information is the most effective way to help a dog in distress.
