GA-Family’s Dog Set Afire

[3MTA3]

Family’s Dog Set Afire; 'It Was A Ball Of Fire With Legs'

Posted: 9:32 pm EST November 5, 2009Updated: 9:44 am EST November 6, 2009

ATLANTA -- A 1-year-old bulldog is fighting for his life after investigators said someone doused him with an accelerant, causing third-and fourth-degree burns to his face and mouth.

“They extend throughout the dog’s entire left side. At this juncture, we’re trying to see if we can save his left eye,” said a representative for the Atlanta Humane Society.

The dog was found Tuesday by a good Samaritan on McDaniel Street in Atlanta. The Samaritan immediately stopped her car to extinguish the dog using her own coat.

Investigators said “Chato” was let out to use the rest room and approximately 25 minutes later, the dog was seen about a block from his home on fire.

"I think they poured gasoline or put something in his mouth," said the dog's owner Victor Padilla. "I don't know. It's hard to believe. You know people do stuff like that to a dog, it's not human, it's an animal, it's your best friend. Why you do that?"

"It was a ball of fire with legs. That's the way it looked," said a neighbor. "It looked like it had been burnt pretty bad. Plus, you know, with the fright of the dog running adding oxygen to it."

Chato was taken to the Atlanta Humane Society Clinic, where he remains under supervision by the medical staff. He is suffering from third- and fourth-degree burns.

“Chato’s medical bills will cost upwards of $6,500 and we are currently seeking assistance to help pay for his care,” the Humane Society said.

Atlanta Humane Society investigators said they have a few leads, but are actively pursuing information to seek justice for "Chato."

They are offering a $5,000 reward furnished by the Holland M. Ware Charitable Trust for a tip leading to the arrest and conviction of the person or persons responsible.

"I don't care how he looks like, he's still my puppy…that's it. I love my dog," said Padilla.

Anyone with information is asked to call the Fulton County DA's office animal using at 404-499-4314.‬‪

News video at link:

Family’s Dog Set Afire; 'It Was A Ball Of Fire With Legs' - News Story - WSB Atlanta