According to the Live Oak Police Department, Live Oak, Fla. (WFLA) — A 10-week-old puppy given the name “Sweetpea” named “SweetPea” is making “miraculous progress” after enduring serious abuse.
Police were first encountered Sweetpea, a brown mixed variety weighing just 10 pounds, in the arms of a woman who contacted her to report animal cruelty on March 31.
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Officials said they found several cuts around the puppy’s ears. Her eyes were also swollen, and I could see blood coming from her nose and ears. The veterinarian later determined that the puppy had a fractured skull and severe swelling around her head and skull.
“The puppy was clearly feeling physical pain and pain when she screamed every time she touched or moved,” the police department wrote in a social media post explaining the encounter.
The woman reported to law enforcement that the identification of a man she knew as Eric Ivan Roldan caused the injury to Suite Pier. She told the officer that Roldan wrapped the puppy in a blanket, then kicked, stomped, and slammed the puppy onto the ground.
Police said they found a blanket at the scene that still had visible blood stains.
Investigators then found Roldan and interviewed him. He was subsequently arrested and charged with aggravated animal cruelty.
Branford-based Livin’ Like Live Live Live Live Live took over the care of Sweetpea and the puppy was eventually taken to Oviedo Veterinary Hospital as her condition deteriorated.
Authorities said they have completed many steps, including x-rays and CT scans.
While still in serious condition, police said the April 7 Suite Pier had made “miraculous progress,” adding that her recovery would never be possible without community partners.
The latest update from Livin’ Like Like Like Like Sanctuary on April 10 says Sweetpea is drinking and eating herself and once again beginning to act like a puppy. Authorities also confirmed that she will undergo surgery to repair a fracture in her skull.
Over $13,000 has been raised to support her healthcare expenses through GoFundMe fundraisers.
“I would like to thank each and every one of you who was here for our little Sweetpea, but those words seem to be very small compared to what you feel in your mind,” Animal Sanctuary wrote on social media. “I’m overwhelmed by gratitude today and I love you all!”
