$25K Reward To Be Offered For Suspects In Chemical Burning Of Stray Dogs

LOS ANGELES (CBSLA.com) — Mayor Michael Antonovich announced plans on Wednesday to increase a reward to locate those responsible for intentionally using chemical acids to burn stray dogs.

In an effort to locate the suspect, and prevent future incidents from occurring, Antonovich explained he plans to ask the L.A. County Board of Supervisors to offer a $25,000 reward on Sept. 1 for information that would lead to an arrest.

"By increasing this reward, we hope to encourage the public to come forward with any information that will help us identify, apprehend and prosecute those responsible for these depraved acts of cruelty," said Antonovich.

According to the Department of Animal Care and Control, at least four burned dogs have been brought to the Lancaster shelter throughout August.

A case involving a 1-year-old stray Golden Retriever named Fergus drew attention to the ongoing crime.

On Aug. 11, a good Samaritan located Fergus wandering the streets around a Wal-Mart store in Lancaster.

He was transported to an animal shelter, and was released to the Southern California Golden Retriever Rescue Group days later.

The rescue group then brought Fergus to the Animal Medical Center located in West L.A. for treatment of third degree burns from his head to his tail.

According to Dr. Alan Schulman, Fergus has responded very well to antibiotic treatment and medications.

A GoFundMe account has been set up to help pay for his medical bills. To donate, click here.

Fergus will be available for adoption in two months.

Meanwhile, on Friday, PETA offered a $2,500 reward in an effort to locate the suspect.

Animal authorities believe someone intentionally harmed the dogs and could be abusing other animals.

Anyone with information regarding this case has been urged to call the L.A. County Department of Animal Care and Control at (661) 974-8096 or the L.A. County Sheriff's Department at (661) 940-3851.