UPDATE at 5 p.m., April 26
UPDATE:
Animal services has been in contact with the Emergency Veterinary Hospital throughout the day. Earl is slowly showing signs of improvement but remains in critical condition. The biggest concern right now is the trauma inflicted to his head. Thank you to everyone that has contributed donations towards his care. Our main priority right now is getting Earl in stable condition. We are asking people to continue to follow us for updates ad hold off on adoption inquiries.
UPDATE at 10:30 a.m., April 26, 2016:
Animal Services supervisor just returned from checking on Earl. She said the doctors are impressed with the improvements he has made although he is still considered critical. They had him out and he was able to stand on his front legs and go to the bathroom on his own. He still not able to stand on his back legs and it will take time to see whether it is a spinal issue. They checked and he is not bleeding internally. They are going to do x-rays this morning to may sure there are no fractures. Time is going to tell them more but everyone is optimistic.
PREVIOUSLY RELEASED INFORMATION
On April 26 at 12:50 a.m., a security guard at Valley River Center observed a man, later identified as Zachary Michael Ralston, age 24, in the parking lot outside his Mustang choking, throwing, kicking and punching a small dog. Officers arrived and conducted a traffic stop. They found the dog in the car unresponsive and beaten nearly to death. They also found Ralston in possession of Methamphetamine and Heroin.
The dog was rushed to the Emergency Veterinary Hospital where he remains in critical condition. When the dog, Earl, arrived he had an abnormally slow heart rate of 50 BPM, normal it is between 100 and 160. He has shown some improvement and will remain under 24 hours care at the Emergency Veterinary Hospital until he is stable.
Ralston was watching the dog for a friend. At this time, Animal Services and Eugene Police are attempting to locate the owner.
Ralston was arrested for Aggravated Animal Abuse, Unlawful Possession of Heroin and Unlawful Possession of Methamphetamine. He was lodged at the Lane County Jail.
Anyone interested in contributing towards Earl’s care can donate directly to the Emergency Veterinary Hospital at 541.746.0112 or in person at 103 W. Q Street in Springfield. They can accept up to a $100 non tax deductible donation over the phone.