What happened?

A local family’s pet beagle was mutilated and left for dead, Cullman County's worst case of animal cruelty in years.

Who is investigating?

Cullman County Sheriff Tyler Roden said the Sheriff’s Office is investigating the case. Roden said the act is a Class C Felony charge and carries a fine up to $5,000 and up to 10 years in prison.

Where did it happen?

County Road 1428 in Vinemont.

What are the owners saying?

Janet Rodgers: "It is inhumane and I just can’t imagine anyone doing that to a living creature. I am just flabbergasted. I think whoever did this should be tied up and skinned."

Neal Rodgers: "I can’t imagine who would do this. I’ve had bird dogs for years and never had anything like this happen."

If you have information about this case ...

Call the Cullman County Sheriff’s Office at 734-0342.





NOAH CHANDLER / THE CULLMAN TIMES

Buttercup nestles up to her owner, Neal Rodgers, a week after a possible attempt to skin her failed. Rodgers’ other beagle, Anne, wasn’t so fortunate. Anne was found skinned alive and had to be euthanized.





NOAH CHANDLER / THE CULLMAN TIMES

Neal Rodgers, right, holds Buttercup, a three-year-old beagle, while his wife Janet, left, and granddaughter Karlie Cupp comfort the dog following the loss of her companion Anne a week ago today.





CONTRIBUTED

Anne, a three-year-old beagle, is pictured after being skinned alive last weekend. She was euthanized shortly after this photo was taken.





CONTRIBUTED

Bruce Lee, a local veterinarian, called this the worst case of animal cruelty he's seen in 21 years of practice.