Kitten Survives Brutal Attack

by ANC Staff and PETA

A stray kitten was thrown out of a car in Fairmont, North Carolina, after being set on fire with a fireplace lighter by a group of teenagers on December 17.

The two-month-old kitten, who has since been named Miracle, was rescued by another teenager and her mother and taken to a veterinarian.

The kitten was in shock when she arrived and had to have one of her hind legs amputated due to the extent of her injuries.

The animal advocacy group, 'People For The Ethical Treatment of Animals' (PETA), is offering as much as $2,500 for information leading to the arrest and conviction of the person or persons responsible for this violent crime.

PETA believes that other animals in the area - and even human residents - may be in danger as long as the person or persons who committed this crime are at large. The group is urging residents not to leave animals outside unattended.

"Animal abusers are cowards," says PETA Casework Division Manager Martin Mersereau. "They take their issues out on the most defenseless beings available to them. Robeson County residents have reason to be concerned."

"According to leading mental health professionals and law-enforcement agencies, perpetrators of violent acts against animals are often repeat offenders who pose a serious threat not only to other animals, but to the community as a whole," Mersereau added.

Anyone with information about this case is encouraged to contact the Fairmont Police Department at 910-628-5115.

© 2004 Animal News Center, Inc.