Animal Care Services investigators seized the animal Thursday after receiving a call from a concerned neighborhood resident who reported a dog with duct tape wrapped around the side of its body and around its muzzle, preventing the dog from eating or drinking.
While investigators were questioning the owner, he peeled the duct tape from the dog's muzzle, causing small sections of skin to be ripped off his snout, a representative from ACS said.
“You need to leave the veterinary care to veterinarians,” said Lisa Norwood, a spokeswoman for ACS.
Officials declined to identify or release details about the dog's owner during the investigation period. The owner could face felony charges of animal cruelty.
The dog, dubbed Frank, had emergency surgery when he was taken to ACS on Thursday, may put it up for adoption once he recovers, in about two weeks.
He currently is on an IV drip for dehydration because he was unable to drink while his mouth was taped shut. His recovery has been steady, though.
“The vet is really encouraged that within two weeks, she'll be able to start looking for placement options for him,” Norwood said.
While it's still unclear why the owner decided to perform the sutures himself, Norwood pointed out that veterinary services are widely available in the San Antonio area, even if cost is a concern — and that performing veterinary procedures without a license is a crime.
“We understand that sometimes folks might not have the resources to treat their pets,” Norwood said, adding that many veterinarians may provide payment plans and that credit options for veterinary services are available.
“Simply allowing them to suffer is not an option. Taking the matter into your own hands and becoming a would-be veterinarian is not only going to cause more pain and suffering, it's also against the law.”
(San Antonio Express - May 17, 2013)
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