Hayden Howard’s life was turned upside down when she discovered that her beloved English Mastiff, Jackson, had been brutally shot multiple times. What initially appeared to be bug bites turned out to be a horrific reality – Jackson had suffered almost 70 gunshot wounds.
Hayden was devastated when she realized the extent of Jackson’s injuries. She immediately rushed him to the veterinarian, who found numerous small bullets fired from a BB pistol lodged in Jackson’s body. The veterinarian had to shave most of Jackson’s fur to remove the plastic shells and extracted 27 bullets, leaving 20 more lodged in his tiny frame.
The Seymour Police Department launched an investigation, and Assistant Chief Craig Hayes described the case as “very bad” and “sad to see.” Hayden was shocked and outraged that someone could inflict such harm on her innocent pet.
The police quickly identified a suspect, a neighbor who had a rifle, ammunition, and a BB pistol in his possession. A search of his home also uncovered methamphetamine and drug paraphernalia. Hayden hopes that the perpetrator will face severe consequences for their actions and never be allowed near animals again.
Despite the trauma he endured, Jackson is on the road to recovery. Hayden is grateful for his resilience and hopes that he will soon be able to play happily in their backyard once more. The incident serves as a stark reminder that violence against animals is a serious crime that deserves severe punishment.
