TAMPA, Fla. — A Florida man allegedly beat his goldendoodle puppy named “Buzz Lightyear” to death, officials say.
According to a Facebook post from the Collier County Sheriff’s Office, Robert William Garon, 23, was arrested on Friday for allegedly beating his 5-month-old puppy named Buzz Lightyear, to death.
“This is one of the worst cases of animal abuse we’ve seen,” Sheriff Rambosk said in the Facebook post. “No animal should ever have to suffer such a death.”
CCSO started their investigation on August 2 when animal control reported a case of suspected animal abuse involving the puppy, according to WFLA. Investigators learned that Garon and his girlfriend brought the dog to an emergency pet hospital on July 29. The puppy was reported to be disoriented and unable to breathe normally. It was noted that Buzz was unable to stand up or pick up his head.
WFLA said that Garon and his girlfriend were unable to tell the hospital staff what had happened. The veterinarian examined Buzz and found possible head trauma, bruising by his right ear and mouth, and some muscle damage all over his body. Buzz died from his injuries, according to WFLA.
A witness came forward and told hospital staff that they allegedly heard Garon beating the puppy and the staff reported it to animal control, according to WFLA.
According to CCSO’s website, Garon has been charged with cruelty to animals. No further information has been released.