Dog Survived Broken Legs and 20 BB Pellets—Now Authorities Need Help Finding Who Did It
When a passerby found a dog lying beside a highway in New Kent County, Virginia, it quickly became clear this wasn’t a simple case of an injured stray.
The dog—now named Fred—had both front legs broken. Even more horrifying, veterinarians discovered between 10 and 20 BB pellets embedded throughout his body, injuries authorities say are consistent with buckshot.
Whoever did this has not been identified.
Fred Endured Weeks of Pain
According to the New Kent County Sheriff’s Office Animal Protection Unit, Fred was found on June 23 along eastbound Route 60 near Brothers Italian Restaurant.
After examining him, veterinarians determined that both of Fred’s front legs had been broken for approximately eight weeks and had never been treated.
For nearly two months, Fred may have been forced to endure unimaginable pain without medical care.
As if that weren’t enough, X-rays revealed between 10 and 20 BBs lodged throughout his body.
Authorities say the pattern of injuries appeared consistent with buckshot.
Despite everything he suffered, officials described Fred as “incredibly sweet and trusting.”
He is now safe and receiving ongoing medical care through the New Kent Sheriff’s Office Animal Protection Unit.
Dumped Beside a Highway
The heartbreaking discovery raises troubling questions.
Investigators believe Fred’s injuries occurred weeks before he was found, meaning someone allegedly left him to suffer with two broken legs before he ultimately ended up abandoned beside a busy roadway.
Had he not been found when he was, his story could have ended very differently.
Authorities are now asking the public for help identifying Fred, locating his previous owner, or providing any information that could explain how he suffered such devastating injuries.
Even the smallest tip could help investigators piece together what happened.
A Dangerous Person May Still Be Out There
Cases like Fred’s extend beyond one victim.
Animal welfare advocates point out that acts of extreme cruelty often raise broader public safety concerns. If someone intentionally inflicted these injuries, they argue it is essential that investigators determine who was responsible before more animals—or even people—are harmed.
At this time, no arrests have been announced, and the investigation remains ongoing.
Fred Deserves Answers
The most remarkable part of Fred’s story isn’t just what he survived.
It’s that after weeks of untreated broken bones and dozens of BB pellets left embedded in his body, he still greets his rescuers with trust instead of fear.
Fred now has a chance to heal.
Supporters say the next step is making sure the person responsible is brought to justice.
To continue speaking up, sign these other petitions as well:
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