Dog Rescued from Abuse Recovering at Shelter

A few days after being rescued from what police can an abusive owner, the dog named Ginger is recovering now in the care of the Central California SPCA.

"Ginger is doing really well. She’s still getting used to being in a shelter environment, but the staff absolutely loves her–very energetic," said Jesalyn Harper with the Central California SPCA.

Friday, officers with animal control and the Fresno Police Department rescued the dog from its owner after multiple people reported seeing a video that showed a man punching the dog repeatedly.

Police cited 44-year-old Leon Scherf with a misdemeanor.

"If you are inflicting severe injury–in this case with the punching and everything, there was intent for severe injury to the animal," Harper said. 

Several people have now reached out to the Central California SPCA wanting to adopt Ginger or other dogs like her who’ve been rescued, Harper said.

"I feel bad that dogs don’t have a choice in this world, and it just breaks my heart seeing them have no home," said Genesis Martinez, who considered adopting a dog from the shelter.

The abuse is something that’s gut wrenching for any animal lover–like Molly Adolphson, who said just last year, she witnessed a man abusing his pit bull at a Fresno dog park.

"He was punching it, body slamming it, kicking it," Adolphson said, "We ended up having to call the police on him to get him to stop. It was pretty sad and pretty disgusting."

According to the Central California SPCA, that’s the best thing to do–call the police, and the SPCA to intervene to try to give dogs like Ginger a second chance and a loving home.

Those interested in adopting Ginger or another rescued animal can contact the Central California SPCA.

For Ginger, there is a hold on her until the CC SPCA completes the investigation to evaluate her injuries and determine whether she will be returned to the owner, since he did not sign off on her.

After the investigation closes, they can begin the process of finding Ginger a loving home.

The CC SPCA is also in need of donations. They could use bedding, and unopened dog food for Ginger and other dogs as well.