ASPCA Offers $15,000 Reward in Puppy Cruelty Case

Thursday, August 16, 2012 - 1:15pm

Photo credit: Heather Walsh

We are devastated to report that a three-month-old Pit Bull puppy named Joey was thrown from a car in Brentwood, Long Island, on Saturday. A witness found the tiny 10-pound pup in a plastic bag near the Sagtikos State Parkway, covered in fleas and crying out for help. Joey suffered three broken vertebrae in his neck and is recovering at the Veterinary Medical Center of Long Island.

The ASPCA is offering a reward of $15,000 for information leading to an arrest and conviction in this case. This reward is in addition to a $5,000 reward offered by the Suffolk County SPCA. We are also providing a $10,000 grant to the Veterinary Medical Center to offset some of the costs of treating and caring for Joey.

“We were both outraged and saddened to hear about this disturbing case of violent abuse, and the callousness that was demonstrated by those responsible,” says Matt Bershadker, Senior Vice President of the ASPCA’s Anti-Cruelty Group. “While our ultimate hope is that these types of heinous acts never occur, this is a message that cruelty toward animals will not be tolerated. We are pleased to be in a position to help those who are helping Joey.”

If you have information related to Joey’s case, please contact the Suffolk County SPCA by calling (631) 382-7722.

Animal cruelty is a crime in every state—if you see something, call 911. Please join our battle against animal cruelty today!

Comments

Fri, 08/17/2012 - 10:59 — Therese (Visitor)
Lauren, You have said it all and I couldn't have said it any better. I have always believed that every living thing should be respected and the world would be a much better place. It's so true that you can certainly judge any nation by the way it treats it's animals.

Fri, 08/17/2012 - 16:24 — Amanda (Visitor)
report any one who abuses animals they deserve yes the fire and the plastic bag, thrown from the speeding car and it come around again and the plane 35,000 feet..if they think they are tuff they need to meet a bear then a lion after the car and plane experience. my prayers are with you Joey.aspca keep me posted I will adopt Joey.

Fri, 08/17/2012 - 11:01 — Pam (Visitor)
Lauren,I couldnt have said that any better!

Fri, 08/17/2012 - 11:04 — Gretchen (Visitor)
Lauren, I couldn't agree with you more. This world is full of evil people and it's unfortunate that helpless creatures are at their mercy. I hope the creeps are caught and punished. REALLY punished.

Fri, 08/17/2012 - 11:08 — Georgina (Visitor)
Amen, Lauren!! You're comment is brilliant and so remarkably dead on. It does all start with what we teach our children. God bless you for writing the truth.

Fri, 08/17/2012 - 11:17 — Stephanie Birdsong (Visitor)
Beautifully said, Lauren (though I'll resist the temptation to want the perpetrator to be treated with equal brutality, though they may well deserve it). I'm SO thankful for the people who found Joey and brought him to those who could save him. It doesn't matter where this took place but that it did.

Fri, 08/17/2012 - 11:19 — Vicki (Visitor)
Amen Lauren! My sentiments exactly! Just because animals can't talk we humans think they don't feel pain and that we can treat them like garbage. I read once in a magazine about a factory farm case where one of the employees was skinning a calf without even killing it first! That kind of thing chills me to the bone. How any walking living human being be that cruel and insensitive is beyond me. That kind of person needs to be shot, brought back and shot again!!!!

Fri, 08/17/2012 - 11:40 — mary ellen doyl... (Visitor)
I agree with Laurens comments one hundred percent. Respect for life, once that goes, if it has not already, we all will be at risk. there has to be stiffer laws and fines,however the death penalty does not keep people from murdering.

Fri, 08/17/2012 - 12:20 — Jo Goode (Visitor)
I agree 100% with Lauren. She said all that needs to be said. All I can wish for is that Joey recovers fully and a very loving home will be found for him.

Fri, 08/17/2012 - 12:31 — Kathe Stein (Visitor)
Bravo!

Fri, 08/17/2012 - 10:39 — Roxanne Becker (Visitor)
These aren't just stupid people they are cowards, they are weak and hopeless things.

Fri, 08/17/2012 - 10:51 — Luann Perrine (Visitor)
Let me just say this. The Bible says an eye for an eye and a tooth for a tooth. What ws done to that puppy the favor should be returned for that cruel person because in God's eyes that is the work of Satan. He will never go to heaven. The puppy is in my prayers already and I know he will survive because God wills it.

Fri, 08/17/2012 - 10:53 — Sheila (Visitor)
People are idiots all over the world when it comes to animals. They have the idiotic idea that animals have no feelings. The answer is in Joey's eyes. "What did I do wrong?"

Fri, 08/17/2012 - 11:05 — Shannon McCormack (Visitor)
Location has nothing to do it. Animal cruelty happens all over the world. As a Long Islander I am very offended by your comment. There are thousands and thousands of people here who have come together to help support Little Joey. He's being showered with presents and donations every single day. There are pictures of him in his little cage surrounded by cards and gift baskets full of toys and treats and blankets. Long Island loves this little pup and we all want to see whoever did this to him brought in and punished for what they did to him. So please just keep your negative comments to yourself and lets just keep this post for positive thoughts and prayers for this little sweetheart.

Fri, 08/17/2012 - 11:50 — Nancy Schweitzer (Visitor)
Amen to that comment.

Fri, 08/17/2012 - 11:11 — Kari (Visitor)
Long Island has plenty of trashy people living here and I am sure the same goes for where you are from as well but it's the bastards that did this horrible thing that are to blame, not where they are from! Think before you make an uneducated remark next time!

Fri, 08/17/2012 - 11:29 — M Martinek (Visitor)
To The Person Who Thinks People From Long Island Are Stupid: Ah...come and visit San Antonio Texas. Number 49 (probably 50 now) on a list of large cities and how they treat the domesticated animals in the municipality. You will think people in LI are perfect. We have had kittens thrown from cars, thrown off of bridges (but that miscreant actually did it in full view of a police officer who wasn't able to grab the jerk and stop him from throwing the kitten) There is a park in town with over 26 loose dogs--the solution is probably death for them. Check our local paper, The Express News, there are no letters to the editor screaming about treatment of animals. Locals feed and water the dogs. One saintly woman rescued two litters; I hope she can find homes for them. My neighbors have a Yorkie tied out 24/7 in winter, thunderstorms, 105+ weather. There is a puppy mill across the alley. Do Not Call Animal Cruelty; they don't care. Granted there are only two officer for almost 2 million people--San Antonio is still in the dark ages. I call Animal Cruelty whenever I see what I believe is cruel and unusual punishment towards animals. No response. I have five rescue dogs. They all ran by my home toward the busiest street in the area; I managed to lure them into my house, thankfully. I live in a 'dog free' neighborhood. Meaning people let their dogs run free and also dump them. My neighbor saw a van stop about three blocks away, open the side door and push out six dogs. This was about five years ago, but it still happens. There are several dog parks in town which is handy for those who want to get rid of their dogs. They tether them to the gate, So Everyone Sees Them, and eventually someone rescues the poor animal. I like this quote from Dr Albert Schweitzer; "We must fight against the spirit of unconscious cruelty with which we treat animals. Animals suffer as much as we do. True humanity does not allow us to impose such sufferings on them. It is our duty to make the whole world recognize it. Until we extend our circle of compassion to all living things, humanity will not find peace." I would like to know how the wonderful person found little Joey if he was in a bag on a highway? Looking for cans? However they found him, they deserve lots of pats on the back and thank yous.

Fri, 08/17/2012 - 11:34 — Chip Garrard (Visitor)
I don't live in New York, but your comment that people are especially stupid in Long Island shows yours! Stupidity and animal cruelty are global flaws; geography has NOTHING to do with this unspeakable act of cruelty! What "smarter" part of the country are you from? I guess there's ZERO animal abuse there ~ LOL! You need to think before you speak...if you can!

Fri, 08/17/2012 - 11:42 — dwhr (Visitor)
people are REALLY stupid

Fri, 08/17/2012 - 11:50 — Jan (Visitor)
Yes, people are stupid (all over the world) and emotionally stunted. Actually, people abuse animals because the person themselves were abused as children (alcohol and drug abuse are typically part of the picture as well). Having been on staff at a private psychiatric hospital on Long Island, we also understood that abuse and torture of animals could readily progress to people. A recent New York State law makes it illegal to ATTEND a dog, cock or other fight involving animals. Jail time. I do not believe that there is any real help for people that function on that level. All of us have a responsibility to just turn them in to the police and testify against them if necessary. Unfortunately, too many police officers (in Suffolk County at least) seize upon excuses for not doing their part.

Fri, 08/17/2012 - 10:02 — Richard Maxwell (Visitor)
Because they are sadistic scum who would do the same to people. They need to end up in prison for many years or worse where they can't do that. Before prison they should be thrown from a car doing about 150 miles per hour.

Fri, 08/17/2012 - 10:27 — Bernadette Van ... (Visitor)
I totally agree! What they do to the aanimal they should be punished in the same way. That will teach them. Throw an animal out of the car, then that person should be trown out of a car too and hopefully he or she will break his/her neck too!!!

Fri, 08/17/2012 - 11:30 — Maureen (Visitor)
Totally agree with you, but when they are laying next to the road screaming someone should kick them in the head. So much for kindness towards other;-(

Fri, 08/17/2012 - 10:08 — Lora (Visitor)
I agree completely!!! I just can't fathom the depravity of a human being who can harm anything or anyone for no reason other than cruelty!!! I really think that if the punishment were much harsher, it might prevent some abuse at least. Although, look at Michael Vick...couple years...and back on top with millions of dollars after what he did to those poor dogs!!

Fri, 08/17/2012 - 10:13 — Isabel (Visitor)
That guy you mentioned, he may be back and with millions of dollars in his bank account but there is something that he will never be able to get rid of and that's is KARMA. You dont know what may happen to him in the future... Dont worry, he will get what he deserves sooner or later ;)

Fri, 08/17/2012 - 10:36 — Dede Reimer (Visitor)
I hope you are so right about this Karma thing for the innocent animals that are treated so cruely. I have literally seen this Karma thing come back to a "supervisor" I used to work for who treated us like morons. I was absolutely amazed while it was happening back to her. On top of that, it wasn't as though we employees tried to orchestrate it. It just happened all on its own. Know that line in the Bible "Revenge is mine saith the Lord." It seemed like I was watching this on T.V. Absolutely amazing. I keep that line in my head.

Fri, 08/17/2012 - 10:20 — Shawna Yeats (Visitor)
I agree, why do people choose cruelty over taking the puppy to a shelter. Look at that face! My prayers for Joey's full recovery and a place in a loving, forever home.

Fri, 08/17/2012 - 10:21 — Shawna Yeats (Visitor)
I agree, why do people choose cruelty over taking the puppy to a shelter? Look at that face! The little pup is in my prayers for a full recovery and a place in a loving, forever home.

Fri, 08/17/2012 - 10:23 — Teresa (Visitor)
People who are as sentient as the animals who are crucified..Will never become desensitized to the cruel acts committed by humans on this planet, toward other forms of species. My heart will forever miss a beat when I read about these atrocities..They are without Empathy..which SHOULD be a natural human trait..However, as we witness time and time again..Pups like Joey are at the mercy of deranged humans...This is so sad..Thank you to all who are caring so carefully for this precious pup...

Fri, 08/17/2012 - 11:34 — Maureen (Visitor)
Your comments were superb. Well thought out and not hysterical as mine tend to be. Unfortunately I believe you are absolutely right that people that (intentionally not using 'who' because they aren't human)abuse animals won't change. I included a quote by Dr Albert Schweitzer about animals and humans. I wont' repeat it here, but I keep it where I can always see it. Thank you for your comments. I hope that Joey and all the other dogs in so called civilized communties receive the love and care they deserve.

Fri, 08/17/2012 - 10:45 — Gene (Visitor)
Some peopel are just ignorant and cruel.

Fri, 08/17/2012 - 11:06 — Lynda Hartmann (Visitor)
Sadly it's because these people are ingnorant a**holes! If I ran things, there would not only be reward for the arrest of those perpetrators, but it would be an eye for an eye, and they would be treated in the exact same fashion, before being put into prison!

Fri, 08/17/2012 - 12:43 — Debbie (Visitor)
I agree with you completely, how can someone be so insanely cruel? Many shelters have a night drop off where you do not even have to talk to anyone but at least the animal gets a fair chance instead of this sick act.

Fri, 08/17/2012 - 13:24 — Joan Matte (Visitor)
I am going to say some special prayers to St. Francis for you Joey. Lots of love

Fri, 08/17/2012 - 14:00 — Diane (Visitor)
Normal people cannot comprehend cruelty. We will never understand.

Fri, 08/17/2012 - 14:02 — Lynda Fisher (Visitor)
Because some humans are just plain cruel - to other humans and to animals. It's like asking why people kill.

Fri, 08/17/2012 - 14:34 — Annabel (Visitor)
How people be so cruel and throw a beautiful puppy out of a car window just dont understand these people.

Fri, 08/17/2012 - 14:43 — Yolanda Mavros (Visitor)
This behavior makes me furious!! I could never understand such cruelty to innocent animals. This person should go to jail for several years. I hope he is found and convicted.

Fri, 08/17/2012 - 15:46 — Barbara Buzin (Visitor)
Can't believe how cruel and evil people can be. If you don't want the dog then give it to a shelter. The people responsible for this crime should be but away for a long time

Fri, 08/17/2012 - 18:17 — Frances Bothwell (Visitor)
The cruelty a society displays towards its animals is a measure of its degree of civilization. The ones who threw this poor baby away like garbage are barbarians. All the kind people who have come to his rescue are a demonstration that we still have a society worth something. My latest rescued dog was also thrown from a car near to where I live. Fortunately he was not hurt and is now a very happy dog living with me. Kuddos to the local SPCA and the national ASPCA, I saw tus story on WNBC, and was moved that they took the time to tell Joey's story.

Fri, 08/17/2012 - 18:46 — Diane McClure (Visitor)
All my LOVE goes to JOEY !! I'm a pit lover !! How could someone do something like throw little JOEY out a car window ? I pray for GOD to answer my prayer for the so called human to get all the punishment plus some for what this unhuman did ! GOD watches everyone at all times he will take care of JOEY and this so called human !

Fri, 08/17/2012 - 19:37 — tamara Lyons (Visitor)
I hope and pray that those responsible are caught and someone should throw them out of moving car get well joey

Fri, 08/17/2012 - 21:05 — jacalyn (Visitor)
Makes me physically sick. These poor little babies. And these are the ones we hear about. What about all those that we will never hear about???? I just want to hurt these people soooo bad. They are born into our world not by choice and pain and cruelty is all they will ever know. My tears never end.

Fri, 08/17/2012 - 23:26 — Karen Callen (Visitor)
They didn't take him to a shelter because they were using him as a bait dog. He was already badly hurt before they threw him out of the car. This is just one case we've heard about, I'm sure there are more.

Sat, 08/18/2012 - 14:25 — sandi (Visitor)
I hate That Crap when animals are being mistreated people that do those kind of things. to Animals Should get what ever they got Coming To Them .other animals as well PS animals Should Be With Animal Lovers Not Animals Abusers And Then They Should get the Same Treatment As Well Too ......

Sun, 08/19/2012 - 03:56 — Wayne entress (Visitor)
I am praying for you Joey! I have three dogs and we all love you!

Mon, 08/20/2012 - 01:44 — nick kopke (Visitor)
Does joey have a home yet? I. Have a rescue pit that was beaten.

Mon, 08/20/2012 - 17:37 — vilma (Visitor)
that criminal has to go 2 jail!!!!!!!!

Tue, 08/21/2012 - 09:30 — John Proietto (Visitor)
My heart goes out to Joey and a speedy 100% recovery. Your safe now Joey you have great days ahead of you!

Tue, 08/21/2012 - 09:54 — Littie (Visitor)
I agree with you 100%. Some people are just heartless.

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