Christchurch's SPCA is calling on a loving family to adopt a brutally abused dog that came under its care two years ago.
Three-year-old George was rescued from some of the worst animal abuse the society has seen.
In June, George's former owner Jade Noanoa pleaded guilty and was sentenced to three months community detention and ordered to pay $3100 in reparations for one count of ill-treating an animal.
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Over eight months witnesses saw Noanoa kicking, punching and strangling George, a Staffordshire cross, as well as shooting him with a BB gun.
Now the SPCA is searching for the right family to home and love George.
"He thrives on routine, stability and love and is a very sweet boy who loves tummy rubs. We are looking for the perfect family to give George the life he deserves, and who can continue with his training and confidence building," an SPCA spokesperson says.
George can't be with other pets or small children and needs someone who can be with him during the day and can provide strict routine and consistency.
He is currently living with a foster mum but the SPCA hopes someone patient will adopt him.
The SPCA says the case set a legal precedent as there was no physical evidence presented. Noanoa was prosecuted only off eyewitness accounts.
Although George didn't suffer broken bones, what's truly shocking about the case is the awful, continuous violence, over a long period of time, the spokesperson says.
"Being subjected to this treatment often causes significant psychological trauma to an animal. Some people don't realise that often our hardest cases are where we deal with animals who are psychologically hurting.
"Wounds and injuries can heal, but overcoming psychological damage can take a long time, and sometimes these animals will suffer from lifelong issues."
If anyone is interested in adopting George, they can call the SPCA in Christchurch on 03 349 7057.
Newshub.
