SOLEDAD — SPCA Monterey County is offering a $1,000 reward for information leading to the arrest and conviction of the person who shot a cat in Soledad.
On July 4, a Good Samaritan found the young brown tabby cat on Crestfield Street, near Soledad High School. The 1-1/2-year-old cat had been shot in the leg with a pellet gun, her severely injured leg broken and dangling. The finder rushed the cat to the SPCA for care.
The cat, who SPCA staff named Libby, short for Liberty, had a pellet in her right front leg, which shattered the bone. The pellet and small shrapnel particles were still embedded in her leg.
Due to the extent of the injury, SPCA veterinarians had to amputate her leg. She is now recovering at SPCA.
“We hope this reward will inspire someone to come forward with information,” said Gio Rodriguez, SPCA Humane Investigations Officer. “This poor cat suffered a painful, inhumane injury. Our goal is to find the person responsible so this never happens again.”
Following emergency surgery, SPCA staff provided soft bedding, fresh water, nutritious food and lots of love to help her heal. Libby came to the SPCA with no microchip, collar or tag, but is very friendly. No owner has come to look for her yet.
Anyone with information about this case should contact the SPCA at 831-373-2631. All calls are confidential.
In addition, to donate to help rescue abused and neglected animals, call the SPCA at 831-264-5421 or donate online at SPCAmc.org.
UPDATE: SPCA announced July 16 that Libby has been adopted.
