Texas Man Charged With Animal Cruelty After Alleging Dog Died Of Depression

After initially claiming that his dog died of depression, a 40-year-old man has been charged with animal cruelty. Based on findings, it appears the man strangled the dog to death following a necropsy done on the canine a month after he died. The dog passed away on Aug. 8, 2020.

The man charged with cruelty to non-livestock animals was identified as William Rose. The 40-year-old was charged Monday, KSAT reported.

Initially, Rose reportedly told the San Antonio Animal Care Officers that his dog had died of depression. However, authorities found through investigations that neighbors spotted Rose carrying the dog by its neck.

In the affidavit, Rose also told his neighbors that his dog had died of depression. But eyewitnesses claim that they saw what appeared to be a wire wrapped around the pooch’s neck.

Rose took his dog out for a walk without a leash at the time. The man was allegedly told by a security guard at his apartment to put the dog on a leash. Having no leash, Rose was forced to hold on to the dog by the collar. This resulted in the dog being dragged with his front paws lifted off the floor.

Further, Rose added that the dog appeared to be having difficulty breathing by the time they got back from their walk. The man left the apartment at one point with the dog (named “Rocky”) was still alive. When he returned, the dog was already dead.

It was not mentioned if Rose was aware of what had happened or if it was something he was unaware of. But considering he claimed that the dog had died of depression, the 40-year-old was likely aware of what was going on.

Rose’s bond was set at $25,000 and remains in custody. According to People.com, it appears the man has yet to have legal representation. There is no word on whether he has already appeared before a judge to enter his plea.