Bancroft, Ontario: April 30, 2010. 6 weeks after finding two Golden Retrievers, abandoned and near death on a country road in Apsley, Ontario, volunteers with the Highland Animal Relief Team (HART) are appealing to residents to help identify the person or persons responsible for the crime.



The two dogs, named Tasha and Sophie, were found on March 13th, with severe head trauma – consistent with having been beaten over the head. Both dogs have fractured skulls and have lost the use of one eye. Sophie has a ruptured eardrum and is still at risk of losing her damaged eye. Both suffer from brain injury, and Sophie will likely have permanent neurological dysfunction as a result of her injuries. Both were anaemic from blood loss.


“We’re hoping someone might have information to help solve the crime,” said Sandra, HART volunteer. “The likelihood of charges being laid is slim unless someone comes forward with more information.”

The dogs were not expected to survive the suspected beating, but thanks to exceptional around the clock care from the Apsley Veterinary Services, the two dogs are now convalescing in a foster home – under constant emotional and medical care.

Tips can be called in anonymously to Crime Stoppers at 1-800-222-TIPS or the Bancroft OPP station 613-332-2112.

About HART Highland Animal Relief Team
Highland Animal Relief Team (HART) is an all-breed rescue, which provides supportive care for stray, injured and abandoned dogs in the Bancroft region. HART is a volunteer-run, registered charitable organization serving 13 municipalities over an area of 20,000 square kilometres and offers adoption services, a foster care program and a spay/neuter incentive program (SNIP) for low and fixed income and multi-pet families. Newf Friends Newfoundland Dog rescue is a division of HART.

For more information or to make a donation visit:
www.newf-friends.ca
www.hartanimalrelief.ca