News

Actions

Dog nearly dies after being shot 26 times with BB gun

Police searching for shooter
Posted at 6:51 PM, Jul 28, 2016
and last updated 2016-07-29 08:51:57-04
A Tampa pet nearly died Wednesday after someone shot her with a BB gun. 
 
Hillsborough County Sheriff's investigators are now searching for the shooter, who faces animal cruelty charges. 
 
“She is an innocent animal," said Lola's owner, Noelle Perez. "She’s been traumatized and I feel like every pellet is a reminder."  
 
The suspect shot 26 silver BBs at Lola, an 8-year-old pit bull/lab mix. 
 
The vet removed 15 Wednesday but several are still underneath the surface. 
 
"She has a BB right in her head so I’m pretty sure that was at close range," said Perez. 
 
Investigators are now reviewing social media posts that may lead them to a potential suspect. 
 
“It looks like there is information on there that we certainly can use but you know we also got to verify the fact that this was who posted it," said Larry McKinnon with the Hillsborough County Sheriff's Office. 
 
For a dog who has already beat cancer, Lola's family is confident she'll pull through this. 
 
“It just amazes me and I’m still in shock, honestly," said Perez. "But I’m glad she’s doing as well as she is." 
 
Lola's owners are raising money online for additional medical costs. 
 
An X-ray is needed to locate the remaining BBs. 
 
If you'd like to help click here.