Police Search For Men Who Attacked Dog In Rutland

RUTLAND (CBS) - Police are searching for two men who came into a homeowner's yard Saturday and beat their dog.

The homeowner, Alexis Thibodeau, reported that the two young men entered the yard on Maple Ave. around noon Saturday and beat the dog with a stick. When Thibodeau's friend ran out to protect the dog, the men ran back to a black sedan and drove away.

"I wanted to cry but I couldn't cry. It's like your kid. You don't know what to do or how to show your emotions," Thibodeau said.

Her friend, Luis Cabrera, said the men also yelled racial slurs at him, as they fled the yard.

The dog, named Abby, was taken to an emergency vet and treated for multiple contusions. Police said they believe the attack was targeted, and that it is an isolated incident.

Abby also suffers from liver disease which Thibodeau says makes it more difficult for her to recover.

"They're praying that she's going to just recover but as they keep saying we're not out of the woods," Thibodeau said.

Thibodeau set up a GoFundMe page for Abby which has thus far raised over $1,800.

Anyone with information is urged to contact the Rutland Police Department at 508-886-4033.