Man caught on camera kicking puppy pleads no contest
SAN FRANCISCO -- Officials say a criminal animal abuse case against a 26-year-old man who was caught on camera hitting and kicking his Shiba Inu puppy has been resolved.
In a statement, San Francisco Animal Care & Control said that 26-year-old resident Zixuan Liu pleaded no contest to two misdemeanor violations.
VIDEO: Puppy recovering after abuse in SF
They also note that, "Conditions of his three-year probation state that Mr. Liu is not allowed to possess animals and that he must forfeit Aniki to Animal Care & Control. Mr. Liu is required to perform community service, attend counseling, and pay all costs associated with Aniki's care."
During his time at Animal Care & Control, officials say the puppy has received treatment for bruises and abrasions and also benefitted from daily socialization and enrichment from their volunteer program called "Fetch."
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"We're pleased with the outcome of this case," said Virginia Donohue, Executive Director of Animal Care & Control. "Animal cruelty is horrible. Animal Care & Control strives to help the animals who are victimized and hold abusers accountable for their actions."
"How we treat defenseless animals is a reflection of who we are as a city," said District Attorney George Gascón. "Anytime we can prove that animal abuse has occurred, we will hold offenders responsible in a court of law."
Animal Care & Control says Aniki is on his way to the Northern Nevada Shiba Inu Rescue, a group that specializes in Shiba Inus and will work diligently to find the best possible forever home for Aniki. The group encourages people interested in adopting a Shiba Inu to visit their website for more information about the breed.
