A Massachusetts woman is speaking out on domestic violence after her dog was beaten while she was tied up and forced to watch, NECN News reported June 10. The young woman, who doesn't want to be identified, spoke with the news station after her 3-year-old Spaniel Cooper was beaten by her boyfriend in Carver, a small town in Plymouth County.
Prosecutors report 29-year-old Matthew Devaney is being held without bond and charged with assault, kidnapping and animal cruelty after beating the woman, then tying her up and attacking her dog. The young woman says's she's bruised and sore, but Cooper was seriously injured as she watched, unable to help a dog she describes as her child. In an interview with NECN News, she stated
"Right now his life is at stake. His kidneys were badly damaged. He has bruising all over his body, possible liver laceration, there's blood in his abdomen. Unfortunately, my dog got more of the attack than I did. Mentally, I am a complete mess."
Friends have set up a GoFundMe webpage has been set up to offset Cooper's medical expenses and has raised more than $16,000. Cooper is currently undergoing dialysis and his estimated bill could top $25,000. His owner says the support offered by friends and strangers has restored her faith inhumanity, and she wouldn't have been able to give Cooper the treatment he needs without that support.
The attack started as a minor argument and escalated. Statistics show many women (and men) remain in dangerous relationships because they fear for the safety of their pets. Following this article are links related to domestic violence and pets, as well as how to obtain an order of protection. If you're in an abusive relationship, please read them and get out before you or your pet are harmed or killed.
Please sign and share my petition and help ensure justice for Cooper
