Third time unlucky for shot cat Sandy

23.01.12

We’re appealing for witnesses after a pet cat escaped by a whisker when he was shot with an air gun for the third time.

Sandy, a 12-year-old cat from North Shields, Tyne and Wear had already used up two of his nine lives when he survived being shot in his stomach and rump a few years ago.

But the much-loved pet now faces having his leg amputated after he was hit in the shoulder by a pellet fired from an air rifle.

Distress over deliberate and cruel shootings

Sandy was shot in the left shoulder between 2.30pm and 3pm on 31 December 2011, New Year’s Eve. He was rushed to the vets where he was kept in overnight.

Sandy has been on painkillers since the attack two weeks ago and his vets bill has reached £500.

Sandy’s owner Joan Mason from Prestwick Avenue, said:
 

It’s a horrible feeling thinking that someone is targeting your pet deliberately.

Poor Sandy was caused severe pain and the vet said his leg might have to be amputated.

It’s terrible to think that someone thinks it is acceptable to shoot a defenceless animal, causing such agony to a living creature is so cruel.

 

Appeal for information

Distraught Joan and her husband Vince have posted leaflets through their neighbour’s doors asking for information.

RSPCA Inspector Helen Bestwick said:
 

Having your pet shot is every owner’s worst nightmare but for it to happen three times is simply horrific.

Poor Sandy is incredibly lucky to have survived.

These pellets may be tiny but can do so much internal damage and perhaps people who shoot animals do not realise the suffering they are causing.

Can you help?

If you have information about Sandy’s shooting please contact our 24-hour cruelty line on 0300 1234 999 and leave a message for Inspector Helen Bestwick.

Anyone found guilty of cruelty to an animal faces up to six months in prison and or a maximum fine of £20,000.

Animals in need

On average every 30 seconds someone in England and Wales dials our 24-hour crulety line for help.

In 2010 we received more than 1.1 million phone calls and secured 2,441 convictions by private prosecution to protect animals against those who break the law.

Help us to continue to be there for animals in need, get involved.