It’s unfortunate that many people shouldn’t be allowed to own or interact with animals.
A few years ago, Hayden Howard noticed her dog wasn’t feeling well. While she was inside, her English Mastiff, Jackson, had been playing in the backyard. When she called him in, he appeared to be covered in what looked like bug bites.
However, on closer inspection, she realized the situation was far worse.
In reality, Jackson had been shot multiple times.
“I was completely shocked; I didn’t know what to think,” Hayden told WXIN.
She immediately rushed Jackson to the veterinarian after realizing what had happened. Upon examination, the vet found numerous small bullets embedded in Jackson’s body, which had been fired from a BB gun.
“There was one under his eyelid, one in his ear, one in his knee—they were everywhere,” Hayden recounted.
The veterinarian had to shave almost all of Jackson’s fur to remove the many plastic pellets. While they managed to extract 27 bullets, they had to leave 20 rounds in place.
The vet also discovered 20 additional bullet holes throughout Jackson’s small frame.
In total, Jackson had nearly 70 gunshot wounds.
“I have never seen an animal shot that many times,” said Assistant Chief Craig Hayes of the Seymour Police Department. “It’s a very severe case and heartbreaking to witness.”
It’s beyond comprehension that someone could commit such a cruel act against a dog, especially one that has never harmed anyone.
Police quickly began pursuing the suspect, believed to be in a neighboring yard. Their investigation led them to a neighbor’s house, where they found a rifle, ammunition, a BB gun, and pellets. Additionally, they discovered methamphetamine and drug paraphernalia at the residence.
I sincerely hope the perpetrator receives a lengthy prison sentence and faces the full consequences of their actions. They should never be allowed near an animal again.
Despite the severe trauma, Hayden reports that Jackson is recovering well.
You can view the news article about the incident here:
Although some news sources often label BB and pellet guns as “toys” or “fake,” these are real weapons with the potential to cause significant harm.
When a crime is committed using a pellet or BB gun, it should be treated as such. These are real firearms, and those who use them to harm innocent people should face appropriate legal consequences.
I sincerely hope Jackson makes a swift recovery and can soon enjoy playing in his backyard again.