A $16,500 reward is now being offered for information leading to the arrest of the person(s) who threw two dogs onto a highway in Cortland County. Several local, state and national animal welfare agencies and private donors have contributed to the award.
The incident happened on December 12 on the I-81 South in Marathon, N.Y.. According to a truck driver who witnessed the incident, someone in what he believes was a Dodge Durango, pulled over, rolled down the rear passenger-side window and throw two beagle mixes out of the car. The truck driver, who wishes to remain anonymous, pulled over and retrieved the animals, and passing state troopers soon the rescue efforts.
The dogs, now named Trooper and Adam, are being cared for by the Broome County Humane Society. Adam wasn't injured in the incident, but Trooper had several injuries, his front leg had to be amputated.
Anyone with information is urged to call the New York State Police in Homer at 607-749-1614.
The following agencies have contributed: the Animal Legal Defense Fund $10,000, People for Ethical Treatment of Animals (PETA) $5,000, the New York State Humane Association $1,000 and a private donation $500.
In addition to the reward, PETA is also sending a Compassionate Police Department Award to New York State Police Troop C and a Compassionate Action Award to the truck driver who helped save the animals.
