Community Corner

Maimed Puppy Looking for Home as Officials Hunt Her Abusers

Miss Harper, a seven-month-old pit bull, had her ears and one leg cut off by abusers.

A puppy who survived brutal abuse by the time she was three months old, is recovering and the Nassau County SPCA is looking for donations to help.

The seven-month old pit bull named Miss Harper endured abuse and was found by SPCA officials in September with devastating injuries.

"Her scars are most likely permanent, damage to her back toes is likely permanent, and she could have surgery to repair her ears, but it may not come to that," said Dr. Kim Barlowe of My Pet's Vet.

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The worst of Miss Harper's injuries were to her ears, which were both cut off, and one of her back legs, which was also severed.

"Our main concern is rehabilitating her and finding her a good home," said Barlowe.

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Miss Harper was the only animal found in the home and the people who hurt her face arrest and severe consequences for maiming the pup. The investigation is ongoing and officials are taking extra care to make sure no other animals are harmed and justice is served for Miss Harper.

For now though, the main concern is getting a good home for the young pit.

"I want a person who knows the breed and they have to be close by so she can get ongoing medical treatment," said Det. Bob Sowers of NCSPCA, though the hospital has received calls from pet lovers across the country.

"So many people hear the word 'pitbull' and they say 'no way' but look at that girl. She's gentle and playful and full of love," said Sowers.

"Wherever she goes, she's going to be amazing," said Barlowe.

No further surgeries are required so far for Miss Harper, but the next step is getting her used to a prosthetic leg. Unfortunately, that may mean amputating her remaining back leg so that she can balance herself and walk properly.

"Luckily, the doctors said she probably won't get much bigger than she already is, which is good for her recovery," said Sowers. Miss Harper weighs under 40 pounds, doctors said.

"We just have to get a good home for her and she's going to have a happy life," said Sowers.

To Report Animal Cruelty call 516-THE-SPCA, email crueltystoppers@ncspca.us or use their online form.


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