Burglary Suspects Accused Of Pepper Spraying 3-Year-Old Dog In Mar Vista

MAR VISTA (CBSLA.com) — In less than a week, there have been 12 burglaries in a Mar Vista neighborhood, and police believe the same suspects may be responsible.

One such burglary unfolded last Wednesday afternoon in an incident caught on video.

It was then police say the suspects broke into the home and pepper-sprayed the dog named Snoop.

The homeowner, who didn't want to be identified, says he found the 3-year-old dog cowering.

"He was rubbing his eyes and scratching it and his eyes were squinted," the resident said.

But despite his eyes burning, Snoop still managed to bark in an effort to alert someone. About 10 minutes later, the suspects ran out right before the homeowner returned.

"They can take anything they want, but if they hurt my dog, that's the worst fear," said the homeowner, who has since installed an alarm.

Yet, he says, he still doesn't feel safe.

"To have that taken away from you, violated, it's hard to sleep at night," he said.

The suspects made off with jewelry and a handgun valued at thousands of dollars, police said.

Police believe the same culprits may be responsible for 12 burglaries in Mar Vista, an amount that is practically unheard of.

Meanwhile, doctors say although Snoop sustained corneal damage, his eyes are expected to heal.