Activists Demand Justice for Violent Attack on Puppy

A five-month old American bulldog, described by veterinarians as an "absolute doll, very sweet and [gives] kisses," apparently posed such a frightening threat to her owner that he felt the need to stab her repeatedly in the face.

The puppy's name is Diamond and she survived the violent attack from 19-year old Matthew Davonn Weatherspoon. She is now safe and healing at VCA Alameda East Veterinary Hospital in Denver, Colorado. Weatherspoon is currently spending his days behind bars, awaiting trial.

Weatherspoon stated that Diamond bit and cornered him in his apartment and he was forced to defend himself. Not surprisingly, Diamond was the only one who suffered injuries. No bite marks were discovered on Weatherspoon. After stabbing Diamond five times in the face, Weatherspoon became angry that she was bleeding all over the apartment. So he did the only logical thing and put her outside. At some point during the scuffle, Diamond received additional lacerations on her stomach and broke her leg.

Diamond's bad luck ended once Weatherspoon shut the door in her face. Shortly after, she was picked up by Animal Control, given medical treatment, a warm kennel and the care she deserves.

Weatherspoon's also getting with he deserves. He has a criminal history and was charged with one count of aggravated cruelty to animals on July 6. According to the district attorney, Weatherspoon will likely pay for every penny of Diamond's vet bills.

Denver residents, veterinarians and activists around the country are sickened and disturbed by the attack on the young puppy. Prayers for Diamond, a support group with nearly 6,000 members on Facebook, sent over 8,000 petition signatures to the district attorney asking for the maximum sentence to be given to Weatherspoon. Supporters from the group have also appeared outside the courthouse demanding justice for Diamond. Additionally, they've held rallies and and continue to organize protests.

Change.org member Cindy Brower knows the importance of taking a stand against animal cruelty. She started a petition targeting the district attorney of Denver, which has already collected over 13,000 signatures.

Pressure from the public can make a big difference in cases like Diamond's, when abusers all-too-often are let off the hook by the courts and are back on the streets after conviction with little to deter them from future acts of violence against animals or people.

Weatherspoon will appear in court again on July 28th. Add your signature to the petition today and ask Denver's district attorney to prosecute Weatherspoon to the fullest extent of the law.

Photo credit: Prayers for Diamond