West Plains, MO – A woman from West Plains has been charged with Animal Abuse and Abandonment following an investigation by the Howell County Sheriff’s Office (HCSO). According to information provided by Ozarks Pet Rescue (OPR), the investigation began after a neighbor reported witnessing the alleged abuse.
We will not release the name of the woman involved, as charges are still being processed through the court system. According to reports, the woman and her children were allegedly seen striking their dog after it killed a chicken. Following the alleged incident, the dog was reportedly taken to a wooded area and abandoned.
The incident was brought to the attention of the HCSO when a neighbor recorded the alleged abuse and contacted authorities. Deputies responded, leading to the woman being charged and released pending further legal proceedings.
Ozarks Pet Rescue has been actively involved in efforts to locate the missing dog, which was last seen running into a wooded area near County Road 2150, close to Butler Farms. Despite multiple search efforts, the dog, now identified as “Diesel,” has not been found. Volunteers and local residents continue to search for the animal, with reports indicating that Diesel may be injured.
In a public statement shared on social media, Ozarks Pet Rescue thanked Butler Heating and Air owners for allowing volunteers to search their property, as well as the numerous volunteers who assisted in the search. OPR also announced plans to distribute flyers, establish food stations, and, if necessary, set up live traps in the area to safely capture the dog.
The rescue organization has urged residents to keep an eye out for Diesel and to report any sightings. Those with information can contact Ozarks Pet Rescue at 417-372-9820.
The Howell County Sheriff’s Office has confirmed that the investigation remains active, and no further details have been released at this time. Anyone with information regarding the incident or the whereabouts of the missing dog is encouraged to contact the Howell County Sheriff’s Office or Ozarks Pet Rescue.
For those interested, a video of the incident, which may be considered graphic, is available for viewing on the Ozarks Pet Rescue Facebook page, as well as more information on the situation.
