In a heartbreaking turn, a sweet Pitbull mix named Spanky endured a horrific experience that was, unbelievably, live-streamed on Instagram.
Viewers watched in shock as he was repeatedly shot with gel pellets.
Thankfully, those same viewers didn’t just watch—they acted.
Thanks to vigilant onlookers, the El Paso Police Department was notified, leading to the arrest of the man responsible.
Immediately rescued by Law N Paws Animal Rescue & Sanctuary, Spanky was rushed to East El Paso Animal Hospital.
While his physical injuries were minimal, the trauma he suffered was significant.
As Lexi Rodriguez, an LVT with East El Paso Animal Hospital, shared, “He didn’t have any physical injuries when he came to our clinic, but he did have some trauma that he endured from the incident.”
Spanky is understandably scared of loud noises and wary of trusting people, a clear consequence of the cruelty he endured.
Despite his past, Spanky is now on the road to recovery, both physically and emotionally.
Once he’s fully cleared, with all his vaccines up-to-date and neutered, this resilient pup will be ready for his next big adventure: finding a loving “fur-ever” home.
Spanky’s story is a powerful reminder of two things: the urgent need to speak up when you witness animal abuse, and the incredible capacity for forgiveness and love that animals possess.
As Rodriguez emphasized, “We would like to just raise awareness to the community, you know, about animal abuse and just reaching out when you hear something, or see something.”
If Spanky’s journey touched your heart, consider opening your home to a rescue animal.
They have so much love to give, especially when given a second chance.