Miami-Dade County Animal Services in partnership with the Humane Society of the United States seeks assistance in solving animal cruelty case

Up to $5,000 reward offered for information leading to the arrest and conviction of the responsible party

(MIAMI, Dec. 22, 2014) – On Dec. 16, 2014, Miami-Dade County Animal Services (Animal Services) responded to a report of an injured animal in the City of Miami. The two year old black mixed breed terrier was rescued by Animal Services from the vicinity of NW 58 Street and 7 Avenue. The dog, named Ziggs by the responding animal control officer, had sustained serious injuries to his right hind leg. A metal clip had been used to intentionally pierce his leg as an apparent means to tether the dog. Ziggs was rushed to Animal Services where staff veterinarians removed the metal clip and provided him with emergency supportive care.

The department is actively investigating this crime and is requesting assistance in identifying the person responsible.   Anyone with information regarding this case is urged to contact the Animal Services Department Investigations Unit at 305-418-7184. 

The Humane Society of the United States is offering up to $5,000 for information leading to the arrest and conviction of the responsible party. 

“All pets are very important to us and have a right to be treated with kindness and respect.  Acts such as this cannot be tolerated,” said Alex Muñoz, Director, Animal Services Department.  Muñoz added, “We urge anyone with information to come forward to assist us in identifying the responsible party.”

About Miami-Dade County Animal Services
Every year Miami-Dade County Animal Services Department (Animal Services) provides care and refuge for over 27,000 unwanted dogs and cats. Every day, Animal Services staff and volunteers work diligently to find life-long homes for these abandoned animals by facilitating onsite adoptions, hosting off-site adoptions at events and locations throughout the community, and working collaboratively with over 70 rescue organizations who share in our goal of a No Kill Miami-Dade County. For more information, visit animals.miamidade.gov or call 3-1-1.

It is the policy of Miami-Dade County to comply with all of the requirements of the Americans with Disabilities Act. The facility is accessible. For sign language interpreters, assistive listening devices or materials in accessible format, please call at least five days in advance.