Animal advocates in Los Angeles are raising alarms over a troubling rise in cases of dogs being abused, neglected, and even set on fire at homeless encampments. A recent incident on Florence Avenue in South L.A. involved a one-year-old Shepherd mix named Luke, who was intentionally set on fire. Sandra Viveros from Compton Paw Patrol, a nonprofit dog rescue group, said, “It was done by the homeless people at the encampment.” Luke managed to escape and sought help from nearby homes before a good Samaritan took him to the hospital.
Luke suffered third- and fourth-degree burns and smoke inhalation, as reported by MyTwinTiers.com. He remains in intensive care but is expected to recover. Victoriah Parker, cofounder of Starts with One Today, noted a sharp increase in reports of animal abuse, with dogs found in deplorable conditions. “A homeless encampment is not a place for dogs,” Parker emphasized.
Despite the severity of Luke’s injuries, his caretakers are optimistic about his recovery. “He’ll be able to live a very happy life,” Viveros said. Luke will stay in recovery for about six more weeks before being eligible for adoption.
The incident highlights a broader issue of animal abuse in encampments, and advocates are calling for more action from city officials. While no suspects have been arrested in Luke’s case, efforts continue to ensure his safety and find him a forever home. A GoFundMe page has been set up to assist with Luke’s medical expenses.
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