GEORGIA -- The Effingham County Sheriff’s Office is investigating a case of animal cruelty and possible dog fighting after a tortured “ bait “ dog was located near the roadway on Old Louisville Road in Effingham County last Wednesday.
Deputies with the Effingham County Sheriff’s Office Humane Enforcement Division were able to rescue the dog and take him to the Rice Hope Animal Hospital for treatment.
The dog was found to be malnourished, starved, and had dirt in his stomach. He also had multiple injuries which are consistent with dog fighting. Upon examination of the dog, it appeared his teeth were cut or filed down so he could not inflict injury to other fighting dogs.
The dog will continue to be treated and cared for by local rescue organizations.
Anyone with information on dog fighting or animal cruelty is urged to contact the Effingham County Sheriff’s Office or Crimestoppers.
This case remains under investigation by the Effingham County Sheriff’s Office Humane Enforcement Division.
(Effingham County Sheriff’s Office - February 14, 2012)