One of Two Dogs Dumped in Canal Dies

Riverside - Authorities sought information today about whoever dumped two Chihuahuas in a Riverside canal with their snouts taped shut, killing one of the animals.

The Chihuahuas -- a male and a female -- were found shortly after 11 a.m. Monday in a canal near Cridge Street and Olivewood Avenue, according to John Welsh, information officer with the Riverside Count Department of Animal Services.

"This was just complete malice," said animal services Officer Kristina Hillegaart.

A metal grate used to trap debris from flowing into the watershed kept the dogs from traveling downstream, Welsh said.

The 15-pound male, believed to be about a year old, did not survive. The female, which appears to be 3 years old and weighs about 7 pounds, is recuperating at the shelter, Welsh said.

"This is just disgusting that someone would do something like this to innocent, defenseless animals," said Animal Services Director Robert Miller.

An animal rights organization affiliated with Riverside County Animal Services announced a $500 reward Monday for information leading to whoever taped the Chihuahuas and dumped them in the canal.

The reward was offered by Animal Solutions Konnection. Animal Services of Riverside County can be reached at (951) 358-7387.