Update: Urge WV Authorities to Do Right in Apparent Cruelty Case!

Update (February 7, 2025): Thank you to all who have spoken up for this little dog! PETA has now heard from the prosecutor, who has promised to investigate the matter. Our caseworkers will continue to stay in touch with authorities and advocate for the dog. Stay tuned!

Original text:

On December 9, a small Yorkie in horrific shape—matted, flea ridden, and with rotting, broken teeth—was reportedly found wandering in Hambleton, West Virginia. The Yorkie landed at the Tucker County Animal Shelter where compassionate staff groomed and vetted him. Alarmingly however, sources tell PETA that police advised that the owner was a police officer and that the dog must be returned. Making matters worse, the dog’s apparent owner reportedly posted to social media that their Yorkie had escaped after breaking off their chain!

Due to conflict of interest, Tucker County officials ultimately recused themselves from the case and it was transferred to the Hardy County Prosecutor’s Office. Our subsequent inquiries to that office regarding status of the Yorkie, and the case, are going unanswered, but State Police confirm that the dog remains with his owner.