Department's care of dog questioned
Police Canine Association investigates condition, handling of Washington County Sheriff's Department's dog
By TERESA RESSEL
Daily Journal Staff Writer
Daily Journal Staff Writer
Thursday, February 28, 2008
POTOSI — The Missouri Police Canine Association is investigating how a dog in the care of the Washington County Sheriff’s Department got in the condition it did. The sheriff’s department is conducting its own investigation.
The Washington County Sheriff’s Department adopted 1-year-old Mosley from the Illinois-based Midwest Bloodhound Rescue Inc. in January of 2007. They planned to use the bloodhound for search and rescues and public relations events.
A year later, Capt. Charles LaLumondiere, who had signed the adoption agreement, contacted the group to let them know the dog was unhealthy and the department wanted its money back or a new dog.
On Feb. 13, a volunteer went to pick up the dog. According to their Web site, the dog was found in a 4 by 4 dirt-floor pen outside a trailer. The dog had no food, water or bedding.
“His condition was such that we rushed him to an emergency vet that night,” the Web site states.
The dog reportedly suffered from frostbite, malnutrition and dehydration, severe hair loss (mange), ear and eye infections, seborrhea of the skin, cellulitis, and anemia.
Missouri Police Canine Association President Gary White, a retired officer who is a master trainer and state coordinator for the national canine association, learned about the incident days later. He was disturbed and worried that this would leave a black mark on any police canine group.
If it was just mange, White could understand the situation. The dog had an outbreak of mange before the adoption but now the dog was 30 pounds under weight and had frostbite.
“I’m trying to find out who is responsible and how it happened,” he said.
He said the dog didn’t get like this in one day. He said it appears the department didn’t do anything to take care of it. He also wants to know why they waited a year to “train” the dog.
When White first learned about the situation, he thought someone must have posed as a deputy to get the dog. But after talking with Captain LaLumondiere, handler Lance Mason, a member of the Sheriff’s Department, and Sheriff Kevin Schroeder that was not the case.
“I don’t know if the sheriff or the captain knew of the dog’s condition,” he said. “Someone got this dog in this condition and we will not let it go. If they are a member of the sheriff’s department then they shouldn’t be any more.”
He believes the sheriff’s department should pick up the Midwest’s $700 emergency vet bill and hand over their own vet records for Mosley. He said the person responsible should be disciplined and/or prosecuted for animal abuse.
Sheriff Schroeder said the dog had lived with LaLumondiere until the week after Thanksgiving. The only problem the dog had until then was what the vet determined to be a skin allergy. The dog was treated and had recovered by the time it was handed over to the department’s handler for dog obedience training.
Soon after, the handler told Schroeder that the dog was losing hair and weight. Schroeder said he told him to take the dog to the vet. He said the dog was then diagnosed with incurable mange.
“We started making contact with (the rescue group),” Schroeder said. “By the time they got down here, apparently the dog was in really bad shape ... I found out about it through the Internet.”
The sheriff, who has raised dogs of his own, said he is trying to get to the bottom of it through his own internal investigation. He is talking with White and the Midwest rescue group.
He said if there was neglect or abuse, it will be dealt with.
“It makes me sick, it makes me mad,” he said.
In the adoption application, LaLumondiere stated he would keep the dog in the office or in a barn during the day and inside the house at night. Schroeder said LaLumondiere had problems becoming a certified handler.
The signed contract requires the adoptive family to provide prompt and timely vaccinations and proper veterinary care, and proper nutrition. It states that the dog shouldn’t be tied up and a fence enclosure should be adequate shelter from the elements.
Sandy Singer, director of Midwest Bloodhound Rescue, said she is upset on so many levels. She feels she has been lied to and the sheriff’s department didn’t live up to their contract.
She said the dog is doing much better now. When they got the dog back, it was only 60 pounds — eight pounds lighter than when it was adopted. Within the last few weeks, the dog has gained 20 pounds and the infections are clearing up. The mange is being treated.
She said the dog cowers in fear at times and has a demeanor like it has been abused.
She said the dog was suppose to be a vital member of the community. She said the department had a lot of gall to demand a refund.
She said someone contacted PETA — People for the Ethical Treatment of Animals, and she has provided them with information.
Chad Brown, who has filed against Schroeder for sheriff and is currently a canine handler for the Bonne Terre Police Department, told the Daily Journal Tuesday that a Mosley Vet Fund has been set up at Unico Bank.
Teresa Ressel is a reporter for the Daily Journal and can be reached at 573-431-2010, ext. 179 or at tressel@dailyjournalonline.com.
The Washington County Sheriff’s Department adopted 1-year-old Mosley from the Illinois-based Midwest Bloodhound Rescue Inc. in January of 2007. They planned to use the bloodhound for search and rescues and public relations events.
A year later, Capt. Charles LaLumondiere, who had signed the adoption agreement, contacted the group to let them know the dog was unhealthy and the department wanted its money back or a new dog.
On Feb. 13, a volunteer went to pick up the dog. According to their Web site, the dog was found in a 4 by 4 dirt-floor pen outside a trailer. The dog had no food, water or bedding.
“His condition was such that we rushed him to an emergency vet that night,” the Web site states.
The dog reportedly suffered from frostbite, malnutrition and dehydration, severe hair loss (mange), ear and eye infections, seborrhea of the skin, cellulitis, and anemia.
Missouri Police Canine Association President Gary White, a retired officer who is a master trainer and state coordinator for the national canine association, learned about the incident days later. He was disturbed and worried that this would leave a black mark on any police canine group.
If it was just mange, White could understand the situation. The dog had an outbreak of mange before the adoption but now the dog was 30 pounds under weight and had frostbite.
“I’m trying to find out who is responsible and how it happened,” he said.
He said the dog didn’t get like this in one day. He said it appears the department didn’t do anything to take care of it. He also wants to know why they waited a year to “train” the dog.
When White first learned about the situation, he thought someone must have posed as a deputy to get the dog. But after talking with Captain LaLumondiere, handler Lance Mason, a member of the Sheriff’s Department, and Sheriff Kevin Schroeder that was not the case.
“I don’t know if the sheriff or the captain knew of the dog’s condition,” he said. “Someone got this dog in this condition and we will not let it go. If they are a member of the sheriff’s department then they shouldn’t be any more.”
He believes the sheriff’s department should pick up the Midwest’s $700 emergency vet bill and hand over their own vet records for Mosley. He said the person responsible should be disciplined and/or prosecuted for animal abuse.
Sheriff Schroeder said the dog had lived with LaLumondiere until the week after Thanksgiving. The only problem the dog had until then was what the vet determined to be a skin allergy. The dog was treated and had recovered by the time it was handed over to the department’s handler for dog obedience training.
Soon after, the handler told Schroeder that the dog was losing hair and weight. Schroeder said he told him to take the dog to the vet. He said the dog was then diagnosed with incurable mange.
“We started making contact with (the rescue group),” Schroeder said. “By the time they got down here, apparently the dog was in really bad shape ... I found out about it through the Internet.”
The sheriff, who has raised dogs of his own, said he is trying to get to the bottom of it through his own internal investigation. He is talking with White and the Midwest rescue group.
He said if there was neglect or abuse, it will be dealt with.
“It makes me sick, it makes me mad,” he said.
In the adoption application, LaLumondiere stated he would keep the dog in the office or in a barn during the day and inside the house at night. Schroeder said LaLumondiere had problems becoming a certified handler.
The signed contract requires the adoptive family to provide prompt and timely vaccinations and proper veterinary care, and proper nutrition. It states that the dog shouldn’t be tied up and a fence enclosure should be adequate shelter from the elements.
Sandy Singer, director of Midwest Bloodhound Rescue, said she is upset on so many levels. She feels she has been lied to and the sheriff’s department didn’t live up to their contract.
She said the dog is doing much better now. When they got the dog back, it was only 60 pounds — eight pounds lighter than when it was adopted. Within the last few weeks, the dog has gained 20 pounds and the infections are clearing up. The mange is being treated.
She said the dog cowers in fear at times and has a demeanor like it has been abused.
She said the dog was suppose to be a vital member of the community. She said the department had a lot of gall to demand a refund.
She said someone contacted PETA — People for the Ethical Treatment of Animals, and she has provided them with information.
Chad Brown, who has filed against Schroeder for sheriff and is currently a canine handler for the Bonne Terre Police Department, told the Daily Journal Tuesday that a Mosley Vet Fund has been set up at Unico Bank.
Teresa Ressel is a reporter for the Daily Journal and can be reached at 573-431-2010, ext. 179 or at tressel@dailyjournalonline.com.
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Reader Comments (69)The comments below are from readers and do not represent the views of the Daily Journal
Geezer posted on Friday, March 7th, 2008 at 11:34 pm
This is so disgusting! and they are going to investigate it themselves? :( I think the state should step in on this one. All of the the people on this department that had anything to do with this should lose thier jobs and be charged with animal abuse.
Troll posted on Friday, March 7th, 2008 at 10:34 am
This is par for the course for Washington County. I used to live there. The Sheriff's dept. has always been a disgrace. When you elect a hooligan from the Jefferson Co. sheriff's dept as your sheriff how can you expect anything less. You people in Washington County need to wake up. I'm forwarding this story to both the ASPCA and the Humane Society, I'm members of both.
Sickened with disgust posted on Thursday, March 6th, 2008 at 4:02 pm
Idiotic, hillbilly morons!
Nothing New For Washington County posted on Wednesday, March 5th, 2008 at 8:15 am
It will be another Sheriffs Department scandal covered up. The local forum has even self-declared a censorship on speaking of it.
Lets Not Steretype All Officers posted on Monday, March 3rd, 2008 at 11:16 pm
As in any profession there is bad seeds. Fot the most part our local law enforcement officers are upstanding, selfless, dedicated professionals. Shame on the Sheriff for having an individual with little to no professionalism, scruples, or ethics to work for him and the citizens of Washington CO. The sheriff even promoted this individual to the rank of Capt. Trust me, this is not someone you would want to lead, mentor, and supervise others. What was the sheriff thinking. The people of Washington County need to elect a sheriff who can bring about a positive change to this department. God Bless our law enforcement officers who sacrifice themselves to enable us to live in such a great place. Keep up the good work.
old reader posted on Monday, March 3rd, 2008 at 2:27 pm
There is no excuse for treatment like this to any one or any animal! The entire department needs to be removed and replaced immediately. Upon their removal they need to be placed in the same circumstances as this dog and left with no food water or shelter. It is high time we go back to Biblical justice. If they treat a dog like this, they will also be cruel to humans. Get these in-humane excuses of flesh out of office and off the streets. Too many "good ole boys" put on a badge, get a gun and then proclaim themselves God. It is high time our law enforcement officials be scrutinized and held accountable for THEIR actions.
Saddened posted on Saturday, March 1st, 2008 at 9:24 am
WTF! There is no excuse for this kind of treatment of one of God's creatures. People who abuse the elderly, children and animals sicken me! This did not happen overnight, within a week or even a month. This took months and months for this poor dog to get to this point. When are we, the caretakers of all on earth going to take a stand?
Tuba's Mom posted on Friday, February 29th, 2008 at 11:03 pm
The responsibilities of the abuse and neglect should be shouldered by
1. Sheriff Schroeder
2. Captain LaLumondiere
3. the person was had custody of Mosley.
Training is more needed by handlers, to how to read and trust the bloodhound.
Six pounds lighter then when he was adopted a year ago? Adult male bloodhounds weigh 100-120 pounds at this age. They are very strong dogs, this dog was skin and bones when rescued from this environment. Total weight loss is 30+ pounds + what would be the normal gain. The muscle mass was gone instead of being full developed in this last year. They are like teen age boys... they are agile, eat a lot, gain muscle mass, etc.
Mosley gained 20 pounds after being removed from this environment... with total strangers, a stranger's home, etc., so the only reason is lack of food. This is a record gain.. at 10 pounds a week.
LE officers and K-9 partners have gotten frostbite before, but never to this point and left untreated. A very painful condition.
They paid for Mosley with county money, have other officers disappeared without question or concern? Demand an investigation and an accounting of money. Goodbye to Good Ole Boys..
1. Sheriff Schroeder
2. Captain LaLumondiere
3. the person was had custody of Mosley.
Training is more needed by handlers, to how to read and trust the bloodhound.
Six pounds lighter then when he was adopted a year ago? Adult male bloodhounds weigh 100-120 pounds at this age. They are very strong dogs, this dog was skin and bones when rescued from this environment. Total weight loss is 30+ pounds + what would be the normal gain. The muscle mass was gone instead of being full developed in this last year. They are like teen age boys... they are agile, eat a lot, gain muscle mass, etc.
Mosley gained 20 pounds after being removed from this environment... with total strangers, a stranger's home, etc., so the only reason is lack of food. This is a record gain.. at 10 pounds a week.
LE officers and K-9 partners have gotten frostbite before, but never to this point and left untreated. A very painful condition.
They paid for Mosley with county money, have other officers disappeared without question or concern? Demand an investigation and an accounting of money. Goodbye to Good Ole Boys..
Bevo posted on Friday, February 29th, 2008 at 6:00 pm
No words can equate to what I feel about this.
Janet Singleton posted on Friday, February 29th, 2008 at 11:44 am
I'm outraged about this. Whoever was responsible for Mosley should be jailed in a 4 x 4 square pen with a dirt floor and no food and water.
Gary White posted on Thursday, February 28th, 2008 at 9:53 pm
I'm with the North American Police Work Dog Association and President of Missouri Police Work Dog Association I would like to thank the good citizens of Washington County for their support of Mosley. Our members hope that justice prevails for Mosley.
Concerned Animal Lover posted on Thursday, February 28th, 2008 at 6:35 pm
Aren't police dogs cosidered part of the police department just like the officers that they work with? Would the Sheriff or his deputies walk by a fellow officer that appeared sick and abused and do nothing to help them? These dogs are considered Heroes just as the officers they work beside. In this case maybe even more of a Hero.
oldman posted on Thursday, February 28th, 2008 at 5:57 pm
I agree the sheriff should not be doing his own investigation I believe the other elected county officals should ask the Missouri Highway Patrol to do the investigation.
To: bad sheriff... bad posted on Thursday, February 28th, 2008 at 5:38 pm
From what I've heard and read, they did not see him on a daily basis! That was the problem. This poor dog was found penned up in a 4x4 pin beside a house trailer out in the middle of nowhere with no food, water or bedding! I guess "out of sight - out of mind" is what happened here!
one who knows posted on Thursday, February 28th, 2008 at 4:39 pm
to:oops - theres alot of innocent people in jail on false accusation and crooked investigations. they didnt have a choice. and cant afford a lawyer who cares either.now how do you think their investigation of their own police dept. is gonna turn out.INNOCENT!
Another K9 Cop posted on Thursday, February 28th, 2008 at 4:36 pm
This is a disgrace for our profession. I apologize to the people of your county for worthless people like this. At my department our residence, kennel, patrol vehicle are subject to inspection at any time to ensure that we are taking the best care of our partners. I can tell you by reading the vets report on channel 4's website and from my professional experience with dogs that this did not happen overnight. It did not happen within a few weeks. It took a long time and much neglect for Mosley to end up like this. I also saw where the Sheriff was, "Seeking a replacement dog." Please call you commission, demand that they step in and keep this Sheriff from getting another dog to do this too until he is either voted out or removed from office.
John posted on Thursday, February 28th, 2008 at 3:03 pm
What has our elected officials come to? Washington county,s sheriff lets his employees treat this animal this way and St.francois counties elected official hits a man walking and leaves him lay beside the road. I think we had better start looking a lot closer at who we vote for in the future. These actions really make our counties look bad.
Sheriff posted on Thursday, February 28th, 2008 at 2:55 pm
I REALLY AND TRULY FEEL YOU AND YOUR DEPARTMENT SHOULD TAKE A LOOK AT POTOSI POLICE DEPARTMENT'S K-9 (BAILEY)...THATS WHAT A LOVED K-9 LOOKS LIKE!!
No EXCUSES posted on Thursday, February 28th, 2008 at 2:36 pm
This is repulsive! I am glad that other agencies are getting involved. How can Officers stand by and watch this cruelty for a year! Good luck with any credibility at all on the stand! We as a community and a county need to form a fund for this poor dog to make sure that the rest of his life is most pleasant, comfortable and without abuse! The dog developed a skin condition after they got it, PLEASE, show us the vet bills sheriff! You all signed a contract stating you would provide medical treatment, lets see them! No food, no water, frost bite! Totally unexceptable...
DISGUSTED posted on Thursday, February 28th, 2008 at 2:23 pm
After seeing the Sheriffs comments on KMOV TV. Saying that the accusations are false that Mosley developed a skin condition after they recieved him. OK a skin condition why was he so under weight, why did he have frostbite and infected eyes give me a break. Nobody wants to take the blame for this but to me the sheriff and the captain who adopted him is to blame. No one should treat a dog like this,let alone the sheriffs dept especially the new county search and rescue dog. Everyone will point fingers and try to cover there butts now. I have had bloodhounds for a long time and now I have two that we adopted from MBR and the people that run it are very proffesional and caring when it comes to these dogs. If for some reason that sheriffs dept. was not satisfied they should have called MBR and returned the dog instead of neglecting it to this shameful point. Shame on this sheriffs dept. The people who are in charge in that sheriffs dept. are the reason why there are so many dogs in need of rescue. Now he siad they are looking for another dog. Great
bad sheriff... bad posted on Thursday, February 28th, 2008 at 1:40 pm
It is so sad to see such a defenseless puppy neglected by all of those Deputies who saw him on a day to day basis. I can't believe that people, especially Deputies, could be so heartless as to walk by a suffering dog and not do anything to help. They should all go to jail!
Leslie posted on Thursday, February 28th, 2008 at 1:06 pm
As an owner of rescued bloodhounds, this story is nauseating. The sheriff, whom obviously is a continued source of embarressment for the county, should be charged by a court of law, relieved of his duties that he obviously cannot handle, and not be allowed to own another dog. Ironic, Mosley was to be used for search and rescue and he's the one who needed to be searched for and rescued. All parties involved should be brought to the fullest extent of the law. Do the words "Michael Vick" mean anything to him? That department is now hated and will continue to have such a reputation unless changes are made. Vick was dragged into prison, and this individual should serve the same justice.
Bloodhounds are the most gentle, loving, sensitive dogs. That dog suffered much more on the inside.
Bloodhounds are the most gentle, loving, sensitive dogs. That dog suffered much more on the inside.
Sad in SEMO posted on Thursday, February 28th, 2008 at 12:56 pm
Washington County could take some lessons from St. Francois County Deputy Tim Harris. He used to live on my street, and I can assure you that his canine, Bruno, is treated with as much love and care as one of his own children. Shame on you, Washington County Sheriff's Deparment, for letting Mosley fall into this sad state! He's a working member of your department and deserves better treatment than was given to him!
Poor Dog posted on Thursday, February 28th, 2008 at 12:31 pm
Where is this dog now, and who is in charge of the fund that has been set up for the vet bills? I read the article again, and must have missed it.
Please keep up with this story. People who do this to animals often abuse others as well. A scary thought when talking about law enforcement...
Please keep up with this story. People who do this to animals often abuse others as well. A scary thought when talking about law enforcement...
SickOfThisToo posted on Thursday, February 28th, 2008 at 11:51 am
This is inexusable! How many others knew about this, and stood by and did nothing? Like "Poor Dog" stated, as if neglected and unwanted dogs aren't a big enough problem in this area, leave it to the Sheriff's Dept. to set an example. I hope the Mosley Vet Fund gets lots of contributions for the care of this poor animal, just as they would for a person in need. He certainly deserves to be rehabilitated and placed in a caring home. SHAME ON ALL OF YOU who were involved! We need laws and lawmakers who will enforce cruelty and neglect issues - of all types.
Horrible.. posted on Thursday, February 28th, 2008 at 11:46 am
Something needs to be done fast! How would you report this to STL news? If anyone knows how it needs to be done! They should not be allowed to "Conduct their own investigation"!!!!
Mosley 2/07 posted on Thursday, February 28th, 2008 at 11:33 am
On the Midwest Bloodhound Rescue website is a photo Mosely and the officer who picked up Mosley along with the following "success" story:
"Mosley (2/07)
Mosley was adopted by the Washington County Sheriff’s Department in Missouri. His day job will be as the departments newest SAR dog and Community Outreach. His night job will be as beloved family pet. Sounds like a pretty good life for a bloodhound!"
How is that for heartbreaking? They had such high expections that this dog they had "rescued" was going on to a "better" life! Unfortunately, hindsight is 20-20!
"Mosley (2/07)
Mosley was adopted by the Washington County Sheriff’s Department in Missouri. His day job will be as the departments newest SAR dog and Community Outreach. His night job will be as beloved family pet. Sounds like a pretty good life for a bloodhound!"
How is that for heartbreaking? They had such high expections that this dog they had "rescued" was going on to a "better" life! Unfortunately, hindsight is 20-20!
lanie posted on Thursday, February 28th, 2008 at 10:34 am
Sickening! They should all be held accountable.
The law is NOT Above the Law posted on Thursday, February 28th, 2008 at 10:03 am
This is horrific!!!
Hopefully PETA and the ASPCA will be all over this to make sure that ALL responsible and negligent parties are prosecuted to the FULL extent of the law.
Most importantly, this is terrible for the poor dog but it has also worsened Potosi's bad reputation.
Hopefully PETA and the ASPCA will be all over this to make sure that ALL responsible and negligent parties are prosecuted to the FULL extent of the law.
Most importantly, this is terrible for the poor dog but it has also worsened Potosi's bad reputation.
Wash Cnty VOTER posted on Thursday, February 28th, 2008 at 9:43 am
Well, the Midwest Bloodhound Rescue should file a civil suit for breach of contract to recoup their funds, if the Sheriff's Department is unable to realize that, other than arresting those responsible, they should pay all expenses incurred by the group. I am glad this is getting so much attention. I would hope that Mr. Rupp will be filing charges very soon in this matter; however, maybe he should take Mrs. Horn's lead in St. Francois County and conflict out of this case and send it to another jurisdiction. I would hope that P.O.S.T. and the Attorney General's attention has also been raised!
You know posted on Thursday, February 28th, 2008 at 9:38 am
A local vet in this town offers a law enforcement discount...it's not like they would have been out any real money to take care of the poor dog...Unfortunately, this kind of poor behavior is responsible for the poor reputation Washington County has. It is a sad day when the High Sheriff and his sidekicks can't even take care of a dog...
Outraged posted on Thursday, February 28th, 2008 at 9:32 am
First, another agency needs to be investigating this, as it is, according to the statute, criminal conduct, animal abuse. Second, the fact that the Sheriff did not know about it, how big is the department, that dog should have been treated as an officer, does he lose a lot of them as well, or not note when they do not look healthy. Finally, since this Captain is the one that signed the paperwork, entering into this agreement, it seems he should have the most accountability. But it does speak volumes when the agency we rely on for our safety and protection is unable to properly tend for one of their own. An innocent, helpless, dog! I hope that Mr. Rupp has someone looking into this and that we can EXPECT charges to be forth coming!
BRENDA posted on Thursday, February 28th, 2008 at 9:10 am
WELL SAID K9 COP....SOMETHING STINKS IN THIS SHERIFFS DEPTMENT !!!!
semo posted on Thursday, February 28th, 2008 at 9:10 am
Prosecute them!!The treatment of this dog is very offensive. Lets see how long one of their deputies would last without food, water, shelter, or medical attention.
Disgraceful.
The A.S.P.C.A. will be notified
Disgraceful.
The A.S.P.C.A. will be notified
That is Sorry posted on Thursday, February 28th, 2008 at 9:04 am
That is a sorry sight. Washington County Sheriff's Dept, Shame on You!!! Anyone who knew how this hound was being treated should feel ashamed. Jail time is appropriate for animal abuse of this kind. Shame, Shame, Shame!!! DJ, Thanks for bringing this to light. I, for one, will not let this go.
Columbia, MO posted on Thursday, February 28th, 2008 at 8:43 am
First and foremost, I hope this poor animal recovers and finds a good home away from the sheriff's department! I also hope this goes into the record books for future transactions. The good folks of St. Francois County have lost a valuable safety resource! I read this paper daily and I will very much look forward to a positive outcome of prosecution of the individuals responsible for this abusing and disgusting behavior!!! I thought the sheriffs department would have kept closer tabs on the taxpayers investment but aparently NOT! Citizens of the county: do not tolerate this abuse and shame!!
disgusted posted on Thursday, February 28th, 2008 at 7:49 am
This whole thing is sickening. Whomever is responsible needs to be locked up in a 4x4 dirt pen in the dead of winter with no food and water and see how they like it. This whole department should be held accountable for mistreating and allowing the mistreatment of this dog. What kind of lowlife would do this to an innocent creature?
DISGUSTED posted on Thursday, February 28th, 2008 at 7:26 am
There is never any excuse for the abuse of any dog or animal, But this is a disgusting act of cruelty to a beautiful dog that was supposed to help the people of this county. This is a black eye for this sheriffs department and the county and I hope the people of Washington county demand answers and the sheriff and Charlie to resign. Remember this abuse was to one of there own. To the people of Washington county, Call your state reps and congress, and other state officials because thats who needs to investigate this. NOT the person who adopted him Cmon that is ridiculous. Be a man Charlie and admit you did wrong.A police dog is usually a member of the force by day and a family member of that officer at night . I hope as long as they are in charge of the sheriffs dept. they are never allowed another dog again.
what in the world posted on Thursday, February 28th, 2008 at 7:15 am
What in the world were these people thinking. I would like to know if they will be charged with anamial abuse. If it was anyone else that let this dog get this bad they would be charged as well. I would like something be done so they know what they did was wrong and pay for it. I hate to see any anamial be mistreated and knowing it was the sheiffs department that did this misdead.
SickOfThisToo posted on Thursday, February 28th, 2008 at 1:46 am
This is inexusable! How many others knew about this, and stood by and did nothing? Like "Poor Dog" stated, as if neglected and unwanted dogs aren't a big enough problem in this area, leave it to the Sheriff's Dept. to set an example. I hope the Mosley Vet Fund get lots of contributions for the care of this poor animal, just as they would for a person in need. He certainly deserves to be rehabilitated and placed in a caring home. SHAME ON ALL OF YOU who were involved! We need laws and lawmakers who will enforce cruelty and neglect issues. It's time this community steps up and takes responsibilty.
oops posted on Thursday, February 28th, 2008 at 1:32 am
the people who were responsible for this poor dog should be treated the same way for at least two days. put out in the cold with no food or water and no shelter. as for "one who knows" comment on humans in co jail, at least they had a choice of being in jail. after all they were arested for doing something wrong the dog didn't
to :washington county resident posted on Thursday, February 28th, 2008 at 12:59 am
you dont need to appologize the ones that done this are the ones that need to be doing that.i would think a valued dog as that would have been taken well care of by someone that is responsible and dedicated.someone needs to ask some questions as to how this happened,and it surely doesnt need to be internal.i sure hope that the person are persons that took care of the poor dog are not taking care of prisoners if they are i am praying for them.
i have got some questions was that bloodhound trained to search?was he a part of the force?if he was a part of that force i think he should have gotten the care he was owed as a working part of that department.if he had health issues he should have gotten the care he needed and i bet any vet around there and st francois would have bent over backward to help.there is no excuse to let that happen.what really gets to me is they had the means and ways to do the right thing and they didnt.
i have got some questions was that bloodhound trained to search?was he a part of the force?if he was a part of that force i think he should have gotten the care he was owed as a working part of that department.if he had health issues he should have gotten the care he needed and i bet any vet around there and st francois would have bent over backward to help.there is no excuse to let that happen.what really gets to me is they had the means and ways to do the right thing and they didnt.
distressed and disgusted posted on Thursday, February 28th, 2008 at 12:30 am
This is just deplorable! Is this gonna be just one more thing that the Sheriff's department of Washington County acts like nothing happened. They need an outside organization to officially investigate this case. Everyone knows that place works on a you don't tell on me, I won't tell on you basis.
This poor animal deserves to have justice! He has suffered at the hands of someone who by the looks of it doesn't see past his own self and is probably swearing he doesn't have a clue how the dog got this way. Apparantly he wasn't aware he had the dog. He had no food, no water and inadequate shelter for the icy temperatures we have been having. Too bad he can't be put in a 4x4 enclosure in the ice and snow, and be treated with the same mercy he dished out so heartily.
This poor animal deserves to have justice! He has suffered at the hands of someone who by the looks of it doesn't see past his own self and is probably swearing he doesn't have a clue how the dog got this way. Apparantly he wasn't aware he had the dog. He had no food, no water and inadequate shelter for the icy temperatures we have been having. Too bad he can't be put in a 4x4 enclosure in the ice and snow, and be treated with the same mercy he dished out so heartily.
houndman posted on Wednesday, February 27th, 2008 at 11:33 pm
Are you kidding me?Who ever did this to this dog better be in jail.Sounds like this captin needs to be in jail with the handler.The Sheriff said, "If there was abuse."Sounds like he is trying to place the blame on someone else.Hope the voters of W.C. are reading....
WHAT?! posted on Wednesday, February 27th, 2008 at 8:23 pm
The sheriff's department is investigating themselves? Are you serious? I wonder if they'll be found guilty. Let's put them in a 4 x 4 dirt floor pen outside with no food or water and no bedding. Oh, and no visits to the doctor, no matter what hurts cause they can't tell anyone about it, cause the same ones they trusted don't care. How's that feel?
K9 Cop posted on Wednesday, February 27th, 2008 at 7:56 pm
He had problems coming a handler??? They dont even certify the dogs! The K9 they have isnt even certified and he is on the road!! You must certify as a team with your k9! I wonder who said the mange was "uncureable". Its a joke. Lance Mason isnt a certified handler, or even a commisioned officer. Hurry Sheriff put the blame on someone else so you can get back to your election HA!
Wash County Resident posted on Wednesday, February 27th, 2008 at 6:52 pm
First, let me apologize for our inadequate Sheriff. I am an animal lover and was disgusted by this story. I am even more worried now that the real story will be swept under the rug since the department is doing their own investigation. Come on, you cannot investigate yourself honestly. Call for the Highway Patrol to conduct an investigation so one person is not set up as the fall guy to same the current Sheriff's election. Keep on this story like you did the Brad Robinson story and hopefully all the facts will come out. Thanks Daily Journal for getting this one going, now the St. Louis news media is running it.
to: keep quiet posted on Wednesday, February 27th, 2008 at 6:39 pm
Did you look at the picture??? I can tell you that my dad had hunting dogs all my life that were kept in pens. They always were given fresh bedding, exercise, fresh food and water. Dad kept the cage clean. They were given medical (prevenative and as needed). NEVER did any of his animals EVER look like that! It isn't the CAGE it is the CARE or in this case LACK of CARE.
keep quiet posted on Wednesday, February 27th, 2008 at 5:07 pm
Except for the dirt floor, was he really treated any different than the other caged animals. At least thats what i hear.......
Franksgirl posted on Wednesday, February 27th, 2008 at 4:55 pm
Charges should be brought for the mistreatment of this poor animal. I hope that whomever is responsible (And there should be more one) is brought to justice. This case should not only involve the caretaker of the dog but the sheriff as well. He was elected to be responsible for the community and that includes animals! Furthermore, all citizens of all counties should be vigilant in reporting crimes against man or beast to keep something like this from happening in the future. It is very easy to take a picture and report it to the police and if they won't listen then report it to PETA. I just think the best thing that to come out of this despicable situation is that we should all keep our eyes open for signs of abuse of those who cannot speak. How about everyone get involved in their community by opening their eyes to the possibility of abuse in their neighbors backyards? It doesn't take much effort to pick up a phone.
Outraged posted on Wednesday, February 27th, 2008 at 4:45 pm
The people of Washington County should be outraged at this and demand some action. There is much more to the story than what can be told by the paper. Thank you for bringing this story out. In any department the chain of command needs to be held responsible for what has happened to this dog.
Animal Lover posted on Wednesday, February 27th, 2008 at 3:57 pm
What a shame! This poor dog now looks like it's 12 years old instead of 2 years old! I sure hope the St. Louis news channels get hold of this story! The dogs in the pound get better treatment than this!
washco in the dog house posted on Wednesday, February 27th, 2008 at 3:26 pm
Bad Sheriff and Deputies! Anyone of those Deputies could have helped that poor puppy. I can't believe that Wash.Co Officer's are so cold hearted that they let this helpless puppy whither to such a pitiful state.
pet lover posted on Wednesday, February 27th, 2008 at 3:21 pm
Those pictures made me sick. Charlie and Lance should fired immediately.
Very sad posted on Wednesday, February 27th, 2008 at 3:19 pm
How very sad that a creature who cannot speak for himself would be allowed to degrade into such a state! I hope he has a full recovery and the humans involved in the neglect are dealt with severely.
animal lover posted on Wednesday, February 27th, 2008 at 3:15 pm
All involved should be relieved of their duties WITHOUT pay until this matter is resolved, then fired if proven guilty, which the pictures prove that.
wash. co. citizen posted on Wednesday, February 27th, 2008 at 3:13 pm
thanks Daily Journal for publishing this article. Please keep us informed of how this all plays out & who the guilty parties are & what punishment is dealt them. That poor dog needs justice!
Tax Payer posted on Wednesday, February 27th, 2008 at 2:59 pm
As a taxpayer I would like to know if our tax dollars were used in any way to "train" this poor animal. I hope all involved will be prosecuted to the fullest extent of the law. Please keep on top of this story.
animal lover posted on Wednesday, February 27th, 2008 at 2:23 pm
ALL those in the the sheriff's dept. who are responsible for this poor dog's condition should go to jail & lose their jobs. The public should not settle for any less on this. This is inexcusable!
Citizen posted on Wednesday, February 27th, 2008 at 2:14 pm
The Sheriff and Charlie are NOT innocent! The Sheriff should be involved in ALL that goes on in that department, especially if he's paying for a k9! And obviously, he hasn't seen the dog in a long while! Not only was it Lance's responsiblilty, but it was there's also to insure that things were in order and going correctly. And also, if tax dollars are going to pay for this dogs food, where did it go?
one who knows posted on Wednesday, February 27th, 2008 at 2:00 pm
the same thing goes on at their jail with humans. now that it is a dog people are concerned.that county needs a shake down as bad as st. francois.what a sad situation - and they are conducting their own investigation? wonder how that will turn out.the dumb dog wouldnt eat,he didnt want water and refused a blanket?just wanted to lay out in the cold and die.so we were letting him have his way. hope an outside organization does alittle investigation also. that poor animal.
Dog Lover posted on Wednesday, February 27th, 2008 at 1:45 pm
I believe the Sheriff should also be held responsible, it's his deal. These people are low life. A poor dog that depends on you. Shame on all of you. I hope justice is swift and hard. Your department deserves no breaks.
washington co. res. posted on Wednesday, February 27th, 2008 at 1:30 pm
doesnt surprise me this is also the way they treat the community if it doesnt wear a dress it dont count shame on the department
Poor Dog posted on Wednesday, February 27th, 2008 at 1:26 pm
This seems to be a common problem in this area. Drive around your neighborhood and see how many dogs are tied up with no food, water, or shelter. We are a throw away society, and that includes our animals. I have six as a result of people changing their minds.
SICKOFTHIS posted on Wednesday, February 27th, 2008 at 1:04 pm
THIS IS TERRIBLE .......... SHAME ON YOU, YOU SHOULD BE PUNISHED. WASHINGTON CO. HAS VETS USE THEM. IF YOU DIDN'T WANT THE DOG GIVE IT TO SOMEONE WHO WOULD TAKE CARE OF IT.
outrage posted on Wednesday, February 27th, 2008 at 1:02 pm
This is down right wrong!!! and at the hands of Washington county Sheriff's department. Hopefully this will not be swept under the rug, that dog deserves justice.
pet lover posted on Wednesday, February 27th, 2008 at 12:52 pm
This is an outrage, the handlers need to be prosecuted to the full extent of the law and lose their jobs.
crraven posted on Wednesday, February 27th, 2008 at 12:31 pm
I hope this department is never allowed to adopt another dog. Charges should be brought on all who had any contact with this dog and did nothing.
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Sheriff and all, you should be ashamed. Do you really think we believe you didn't know? Just how dumb do you think we are?
This sicken me.