AR-News: (US) Horse shot in March now poisoned

[Snugglezzz at aol.com]

Horse shot in March now poisoned 

TOM MCMAHON , Staff Writer 05/27/2004 
 
LITTLE SIOUX - Scott Pape is looking for the person or people who poisoned his horse, Josie. People for the Ethical Treatment of Animals is trying to help.
   
Pape said it's the second time Josie's been targeted. "She was shot behind the front shoulder in March," he said. 

His daughter's donkey, Baby, was shot and killed at that time. Josie survived.

Pape said he offered a reward in March and a suspect was found and has been charged in the shootings. "He is a juvenile and is not in jail." Pape does not know if the same person is responsible for the recent poisoning attempt.

The Harrison County Sheriff's Office refused to release the arrest report or suspect's name, saying it would jeopardize its investigation. County Attorney Judson Frisk did not return calls.

PETA is offering up to $2,500 for information leading to the arrest and conviction of whomever poisoned the horse. "Animal abusers are cowards," said PETA Cruelty Caseworker Tarina Keene. "They take their issues out on the most defenseless beings available to them," she said.

Harrison County residents have reason to be concerned, Keene said. "According to leading mental health professionals and law-enforcement agencies, perpetrators of violent acts against animals are often repeat offenders who pose a serious threat not only to other animals, but to the community as a whole."

Pape said Josie was acting strangely May 16. A day later, her muzzle, tongue and lips were blistered, Pape said. "The vet said someone either threw a chemical, possibly acid, in her face or tried to force it down her throat." He said the horse is slowly recovering. "Fortunately, her throat and internal organs were not affected."

Harrison County Sheriff Terry Baxter said his office took chemical samples in the area and is in the process of identifying the substance used. He said he does not know if the two incidents are related. "We are investigating them as separate incidents," Baxter said.

Pape said he would appreciate the public's help in finding the perpetrator. He said he is worried about what might happen in the future. "It is terrible and people need to know this is happening," he said. "The animals were standing at the hay trough when they were shot."

Anyone with information about the case is asked to call the sheriff's office at (712) 644-2244. 

©Daily Nonpareil 2004