Donations sought for dog shot during attempted robbery, attempted murder

The Monroe County Humane Association is currently seeking public donations to help offset the cost of necessary surgery for Jack, a 2-year-old, mix-breed dog that Lavon D. Bartlett, 20, allegedly shot during a robbery attempt on Bloomington’s north side last week.

On June 22, City of Bloomington Animal Control Officer Vicki Minder responded to a call of a dog who had been shot, according to a press release. During the alleged attempted robbery, a 20-year-old man was also shot in the groin.

For the shooting, Bartlett was booked into the Monroe County Jail on Sunday for attempted murder, attempted robbery, criminal recklessness, cruelty to animals and possession of a handgun without a permit.

Because of financial constraints, friends of Jack’s owner collected funds from other friends to pay for initial treatment, according to the release, which included wound treatment and a splint. But additional funds are needed for further treatment, including changing the dressing and splint regularly with hopes the bones and wounds will heal without loss of the leg or other complications.

“Everyone who has worked with Jack has immediately fallen in love with the dog,” Swanson said in the press release. “We are trying our best to see that his wounds are taken care of so that he has the best chance of healing.”

Jack will remain in the care of his owner’s friends until the owner recovers from his injuries.

Donations to the MCHA Olivia Abuse and Rescue Fund will benefit Jack’s surgery and aftercare, which will total an estimated $700-800.

Donations can be made online at www.monroehumane.org.

“Jack is truly an innocent victim of one of the more deplorable crimes an individual can commit,” said Sarah Hayes, CEO of the Monroe County Humane Association, in the release. “The least we can do is provide him the care he really needs and try to right the wrong.”

— Mark Keierleber