It’s a well-researched fact that domestic violence and animal abuse go hand-in-hand. Our companion pets should not have to endure being used as an “object” for someone’s violent anger. Unfortunately, the following appears to be just this kind of case.

On December 28, 2011, the Marion County, Florida 911 system received a hang up telephone call. Upon arrival of the sheriff’s department who were dispatched to the address, they found a young woman, a couch flipped over in the living room, and a dead Chihuahua puppy whom appeared to be about 8 weeks old.

A further search of the premises turned up two more dead puppies. Three more were found alive in the home but obviously frightened, as two were found cowering behind a feces and urine infested toilet. The mother was found outside eating from bags of garbage strewn across the property.

The woman said that her boyfriend, 20-year-old Tayon Lavon Alexander, told her that he “threw the dog down and its dead.” Mr. Alexander has been charged with 3 counts of felony animal abuse and is awaiting a court appearance on January 31, 2012.

For further information about this horrific story, please see the following links:

http://www.ocala.com/article/20111228/ARTICLES/111229701
http://www.nbcmiami.com/news/local/Man-Arrested-for-Killing-Girlfriends-Three-Puppies-136388813.html
http://www.dailymail.co.uk/news/article-2079853/Man-accused-killing-Chihuahua-puppies-row-girlfriend.html

For more information on empowering women in domestic violence situations please click here: http://www.leavingabuse.com/