Video of dog dragged at shelter raises questions of abuse in Hesperia

KABC logo
Sunday, February 22, 2015
Mia the dog is shown being dragged down a hallway in this undated file photo.
Mia the dog is shown being dragged down a hallway in this undated file photo.
KABC-KABC

HESPERIA, Calif. (KABC) -- A Facebook video showing a dog being dragged down a hallway at an animal shelter has caused an uproar in Hesperia.

The person who recorded the video claims the woman dragging the dog is an employee at the Hesperia Animal Shelter.

Tap to view if on News app.

The city has now launched an investigation into the incident. Hesperia Mayor Eric Schmidt has called a special city council meeting for Monday to address the public's concerns.

"I assure you that appropriate action will be taken. The city is committed to the fair and humane treatment of animals. I'm not able to answer any question at this time regarding the incident, but I do want to reiterate that we understand the seriousness of the incident and extend our sincerest apologies," Schmidt said at a Saturday news conference.

The dog's owner Tracie Carpenter said her dog Mia got loose from her front yard on Feb. 12 and was picked up by Hesperia Animal Control.

"They insisted on spaying her. We agreed, paid the almost $300 fees and picked her up at about 2:30 p.m. on the 13th," Carpenter said.

Mia has since been reunited with her family and is back at home.

Mia the dog is shown in these undated file photos.