Family Dismayed By Rogers County Dog's Death

Authorities in Rogers County are investigating a case of animal cruelty involving a dog being dragged to its death.

Outraged animal lovers have created a reward for information.

9/2/2012 Related Story: Rogers County Dog Reportedly Dragged To Death

Jetta was a protective pooch.

"If our kids were outside, she was right there by her side, wouldn't let them out of her sight," owner Melony Patton said.

But the young black lab had a sensitive side, Patton said. Jetta wouldn't hurt a fly.

"She was more of a 'come lay by your feet, pet me and lick ya to death.'"

Jetta was a new mom of just four weeks.

"Nine puppies," Patton said. "Nine. She was right there if any of them yelped or cried or anything. She was a good mama."

Jetta was taking care of her pups on Friday night. That was the last time Patton saw the family dog.

"I think I'm still in shock that somebody could take something from my yard and do that," Patton said.

On Saturday morning, Patton said her husband and brother found Jetta about a mile from home, dead and barely recognizable.

Patton said someone tied Jetta's back legs together with wire then tortured her to death.

"You don't drag a dog a mile away from her home, behind a vehicle," Patton said.

Angry and upset, Patton is staying strong for children and struggling herself for answers.

"What keeps going through my head [is], why would somebody want to do this to someone's pet someone's child?

"I've got two small kids now to explain to them what happened to their dog. How do I explain that to a 3 year old and a 2 year old?

Rogers County Sheriff Scott Walton calls the crime an act of evil, and he's not taking it lightly.

"You just have to believe and stay focused on the fact that this is the work of a sick mind, that some thug would do this to an animal," Walton said.

But for Patton, her fear stretches even farther.

"If they're gonna do this to a pet, what are they gonna do to a child? Or what are they gonna do to another adult? If they're this cruel, I mean, they're cruel to do anything," Patton said.

It's an unsettling thought that's being comforted now by the love of her nine healthy pups.

Patton said her family will be keeping one of Jetta's puppies, but will soon be looking for good homes for the rest.

Walton said someone out there knows who is responsible and he hopes that person comes forward.

You can do that anonymously calling the RCSO tip line at 918-341-3620.

The Wild Heart Ranch, an animal rescue group, is also seeking justice for Jetta, by offering a $5,000 reward for any information leading to an arrest.