01-05-2025
Pup Being 'Mauled' Overnight in Shelter by Large Dog Frustrates Viewers
Based on facts, either observed and verified firsthand by the reporter, or reported and verified from knowledgeable sources.
Newsweek AI is in beta. Translations may contain inaccuracies—please refer to the original content.
A heartbreaking video showing the aftermath of a puppy being "mauled" at an animal shelter left people frustrated and demanding accountability.
A New York-based animal rescue organization, Rescue Dogs Rock NYC, recently posted to Facebook a horrific video that showed how a puppy named Barrett was found one morning at an animal shelter. Along with the video was a message from the intake shelter where the incident occurred, which stated the shelter staff found Barrett with his mouth torn apart, exposing his teeth and gums, when they came in one morning.
The staff suspects that the incident came from a large dog in the kennel next to him. The dog could have reached him through an opening at the bottom. However, their suspicions have not been confirmed, the post stated.
Since this unfortunate event, Rescue Dogs Rock NYC took him into its care. A representative told Newsweek via Facebook that Barrett is with a veterinarian getting much-needed care.
In an update, the rescue said that his wound is being cleaned daily to avoid infection. He will also see a specialist who will assess regenerating the tissue that is no longer there.
Despite the attack, the rescue shared that Barrett is "still all smiles." His youthfulness shines as he enjoys eating, drinking and playing.
Newsweek reached out to the rescue to identify the shelter where the attack occurred, as well as to the cofounder of Rescue Dogs Rock NYC via text for additional information.
A puppy is receiving treatment from a vet after being "mauled" in an animal shelter. Staffers believe another dog attacked him through a hole in the kennel.
A puppy is receiving treatment from a vet after being "mauled" in an animal shelter. Staffers believe another dog attacked him through a hole in the kennel.
RescueDogsRockNyc/Facebook
The rescue organization called the attack a result of shelter overcrowding.
About 5.8 million cats and dogs entered U.S. shelters in 2024, according to Shelter Animals Count. This is about a 1 percent decrease from a year earlier. Despite the slight dip in pets entering shelters, many are still feeling the effects of overcrowding, lack of resources or funding and pleading for foster homes or adopters.
Facebook Reacts
Even with Barrett transferred to a rescue and receiving medical care, Facebook viewers were immediately up in arms about the attack. The post amassed over 12,000 likes and 2,400 shares.
"Shelter needs to take accountability for this, as it was their irresponsible behavior that caused it. So sick of this. Poor animals have no chance," said one person.
A second wrote: "Everyone needs a better plan going forward at this place so this never happens again. This puppy is suffering now. I know all of you have good intentions but better planning and safety measures are needed."
Another added: "So sad. Still wagging its tail after all the trauma. Please save this pup."
