Aug 24, 2007 11:20 pm US/Eastern
Phillies Star Helping Severely Tortured Puppy
Suspects Sought In Dog Beating And Burning
PHILADELPHIA (CBS 3) ―
A Phillies all-star has joined efforts to help a brutally tortured puppy rescued in West Philadelphia Thursday afternoon.
Neighbors contacted police after noticing a group of teens severely beat the dog before setting it on fire in N. Hirst Street.
The Pennsylvania SPCA is treating the badly injured pup for its extensive injuries, hoping to prevent the spread of infection.
"Despite the brutal beating she took, despite the severe burns across her face and back, she wags her tail, so we'd like her legacy to be, 'Stop this now,'" said CEO of the PSCA Howard Nelseo.
Treatment for the injured pooch, costing upwards of $3,000, is being paid for by Philadelphia Phillies second baseman Chase Utley and his wife Jen, who are dedicated to stopping animal abuse.
"It's really disheartening to see that this kind of abuse can come out on an animal like this," Jen Utley tearfully said.
SPCA officials said the loving, young dog will need at least three more months of intensive treatment and may possibly lose one of her legs.
No arrests have been made in the cruel case of abuse.
If you have any information, contact Philadelphia Police. If you would like more information on how to help the injured puppy, contact the Pennsylvania SPCA at
215-426-6300.
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