Last month, justice was brought to another innocent dog. On March 8, 2018, Leenisha Harris was found guilty of three misdemeanor counts for causing unnecessary and intentional suffering to her young Pit Bull. She will serve two years of probation, 75 hours of community service, and is not allowed to have any pets or animals for five years.
The original report of this incident occurred on Tuesday, October 11, 2016. Central California SPCA Humane Officers responded to a call regarding a deceased, neglected, and malnourished young Pit Bull at an apartment complex in Fresno. Upon arrival to the scene, our Humane Officers found the deceased dog in deplorable filthy surroundings.
Harris had recently lost her significant other to gun violence and had abandoned the dog for days without leaving water. Though the dog had access to food, dehydration and starvation were factors that led to the dog’s death. Additionally, a necropsy revealed that the dog had Valley Fever, spread by a fungus that enters the body through the lungs.
The failure to provide water and proper vet care resulted in the needless suffering and subsequent death of the young Pit Bull. Regardless of personal circumstances, it is unlawful to leave a dog unattended without proper accommodations and care. This case was submitted to the District Attorney’s Office on January 23, 2017.
To help support the CCSPCA and its efforts to prosecute offenders and help abused, neglected, homeless animals, please consider making a donation, becoming a foster parent, or volunteering your time and talent. Donations can be mailed to CCSPCA, 103 S. Hughes Ave. Fresno, CA 93706, through ccspca.com, or in person.
If you suspect animal cruelty, please call 559-233-7722 or visit the Central California SPCA.