West Plains, MO – Diesel, the dog at the center of an ongoing animal abuse and abandonment investigation, has been found safe after several days of intensive search efforts led by Ozarks Pet Rescue (OPR) and local volunteers.
According to OPR, Diesel was located after walking up to a neighbor in the vicinity, where volunteers had been tracking him. The dog has since been taken to a local veterinary clinic for a thorough medical evaluation and will remain under veterinary care overnight. The organization has expressed gratitude to everyone who assisted in the search, from those who shared social media posts to volunteers who searched the area.
Urgent Foster Needed:
While Diesel is now safe, OPR is urgently seeking a foster home for him starting today or tomorrow. Those who are able to provide a safe and caring temporary home are encouraged to contact OPR immediately.
How to Help:
Community members who wish to support Diesel’s ongoing care can donate directly to his veterinary expenses using the following options:
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PayPal: Ozarkspetrescue1@gmail.com
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CashApp: $ozarkpetrescue1
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Venmo: @ozarkspetrescue1
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Mail:
Ozarks Pet Rescue
1404 Southern Hills Ctr, PMB 364
West Plains, MO 65775
Donations can also be made directly to William’s Veterinarian Clinic in Mountain Grove, where Diesel is currently being treated.
This discovery follows an investigation by the Howell County Sheriff’s Office (HCSO), which led to a West Plains woman being charged with Animal Abuse and Abandonment. The investigation began after a neighbor reported witnessing the alleged abuse, during which the woman and her children were reportedly seen striking Diesel after he killed a chicken. The dog was then allegedly abandoned in a wooded area.
OPR has actively coordinated search efforts for Diesel since the incident, utilizing volunteers, distributing flyers, and setting up food stations to attract the dog.
With Diesel now safe, attention has shifted to his recovery and securing a safe environment where he can begin to heal. Anyone interested in fostering Diesel or assisting with his care is encouraged to contact Ozarks Pet Rescue at 417-372-9820.
