Yonkers police say a pit bull puppy likely used as a "bait dog" in fights that was found tied to a fence with severe bite wounds and abrasions was so badly injured that it had to be euthanized.
The SPCA of Westchester County said a veterinarian was unable to treat the dog's extensive wounds and excessive blood loss. Director Ernest Lungaro said that the male pit bull also had numerous older scars and was emaciated. His breathing was extremely labored, and he was taken to a local animal hospital.
The puppy was found Thursday on a walkway near Somersville Road and Edwards Place after someone called the local animal shelter about a badly injured animal.
Police believe the 9-month-old pup was used as a "bait dog," which are animals used to train other dogs to fight in a dog fighting ring.
Some of these dogs have their teeth removed or are tethered to render them defenseless; they're almost always puppies, weak or older dogs, or females that can no longer breed, the SPCA said.
The puppy was found Thursday on a walkway near Somersville Road and Edwards Place after someone called the local animal shelter about a badly injured animal.
Police believe the 9-month-old pup was used as a "bait dog," which are animals used to train other dogs to fight in a dog fighting ring.
Some of these dogs have their teeth removed or are tethered to render them defenseless; they're almost always puppies, weak or older dogs, or females that can no longer breed, the SPCA said.
Police ask anyone with information about the puppy or a dog fighting ring operating in the area to call SPCA's hotline at 914 941-7797.
Copyright AP - Associated Press
