January 13, 2023 |
The Carbon County Sheriff’s Office is looking for the person or persons responsible for shooting a service dog in Hanna. Although shot twice and left to die, the dog survived.
On the night of January 8th, Charles Owens’ two-and-a-half-year-old service dog, Mollie, escaped from his brother’s backyard in Hanna. The next morning, Mollie was found lying in a pool of blood, with two gunshot wounds. Owens described how he found out about the attack.
Earlier in the day, Owens had gone with his friend to Rawlins because their dog had been injured in an unrelated incident. He left Mollie with his brother. Winter weather caused WYDOT to close the roads, so Owens had to spend the night in Rawlins.
Owens’ brother transported the dog to the Carbon County Veterinary Hospital in Rawlins. Owens said Mollie underwent several surgeries.
Mollie is a registered service animal. She helps Owens, who suffers from anxiety brought about by past trauma, as well as Owens’ brother, who has epilepsy.
Owens said Mollie was shot with two nine-millimeter bullets. He said staff at the veterinary hospital were impressed by how quickly Mollie has recovered.
The attack has left Owens with unexpected vet bills. He said he is unable to cover the cost of Mollie’s treatment.
Owens has set up a GoFundMe campaign to help pay for Mollie’s vet bills. He said people can donate online or give directly to the Carbon County Veterinary Hospital. Owens said he still needs to raise more than $2,500.
Hanna marshals and the Carbon County Sheriff’s Department are looking into the attack. Owens’ said he is unhappy with the way the investigation is being handled.
Sheriff Alex Bakken said he is unable to provide a statement since the investigation is ongoing.
