RICHMOND, Va. (WRIC) — The dog that was set on fire and abandoned in a Richmond park Sunday night is “not great,” though support for the badly-burned animal continues to grow, Richmond Animal Care and Control (RACC) said Wednesday.
RACC said the male brindle pit bull, who they’ve named Tommie, is stable but new burn wounds have presented and old wounds have worsened. His entire body is now affected.
“His pain is being managed and he’s comfortable, but our plans for treatment are changing,” RACC said.
RELATED: Dog found tied to pole, set on fire in Richmond park
The shelter said they met with a physician and nurse from VCU Evans-Haynes Burn Center who consulted them about options for Tommie
“Our team is meeting again later today and we will update you once we have more to share. Please know that recovery may not be an option, but we are exploring every opportunity to find the best solution for our Tommie,” the shelter said.
Tommie was tied to a pole in Abner Clay Park on West Clay Street at about 7:30 p.m. Sunday, covered in accelerant and intentionally set on fire, according to RACC.
Authorities are still looking for the person who did this. Witnesses saw an adult male suspect wearing “multiple layers of pants” run from the scene towards Belvidere Street.
“RACC Officers remain steadfast in their investigation to find the person responsible for this horrific crime,” the shelter said. “We are receiving helpful tips and information-keep them coming.”
Anyone who has information is asked to contact RACC or Richmond Crime Stoppers at 804-780-1000.
RACC is taking donations for Tommie’s vet care costs. You can donate here.
A reward fund has also been started that will be offered to anyone with information that leads to the arrest and conviction of the person who did this. RACC said Wednesday afternoon the reward fund had swelled to $10,000.
Gifts can be made online; put REWARD in the notes or mail to RACCF, 1600 Chamberlayne Avenue, Richmond, VA 23222 with REWARD in the memo.
“Please know that donations made to this reward — if not awarded — will support direct emergency vet costs for other RACC animals in critical need,” RACC said.
