The Austin Police Department announced Monday afternoon that the dog seen in a viral online post being abused by its owner in a downtown Austin apartment balcony was seized and is safe with Animal Services staff.
Reddit user Acherontiaa posted to r/Austin on Sunday evening. The post described an incident at the SEVEN Apartments building on 615 West 7th Street.
“Neighbor is abusing dog, police did nothing,” the post reads. “What can be done to save this dog? Help.”
Viral Reddit Video Shows Austin Animal Cruelty Case in Progress
The nearly two-minute long clip shows a shirtless man attacking his dog with patio furniture, a piece of cloth, and eventually a belt.
The post was then reposted by several Instagram accounts with large followings, including @ZilkerBark, which is run by Austin photographer Alex Hopes.
Austin City Council Member Zo Qadri commented on the post to get more information about the situation.
After seeking answers, he commented, “The officers believe it is cruelty/abuse. Animal cruelty is directing the officers to seize the dog if the owner is there for the dog’s protection. If the owner isn’t there, AC will write a seizure order tomorrow.”
Austin Police Department Releases Statement on Animal Cruelty Case
APD released its statement around 4 p.m. on Monday. It confirms that the department learned of the incident from the neighbor’s report and social media tips.
“The APD Animal Cruelty Unit reviewed the videos and determined the conduct depicted was consistent with unjustified pain and suffering,” the statement reads. “Due to concerns for the dog’s safety, detectives coordinated with patrol officers and Austin Animal Protection.”
Officers returned to the area and found the suspect returning to his apartment with the dog. “The dog was seized without incident and transported to the Austin Animal Services for evaluation and safekeeping until the investigation is completed,” the post reads.
The dog, named Boone, was found to be “in generally good health” by a city veterinarian. Staff are working to soothe him.
“Detectives are continuing to gather information, interview witnesses, and review evidence,” the post concludes. “This remains an active and ongoing investigation, and there is no further information available for release at this time.”