Two Employees Charged with Animal Abuse at Las Vegas Dog Rescue as Investigations Uncover Shocking Practices

Authorities confiscated 35 dogs from the organization, with evidence gathered from surveillance footage depicting abusive training methods. Police allege that Johnstone was seen lifting dogs by their leashes and using shock collars on them when they failed to obey commands. Sergeant William Gethefer, who is involved in the case, expressed concern over the training practices observed, labeling them as "straight-up cruelty" instead of acceptable training techniques.

One reported incident showed a dog being shocked from the trainer's pocket when it seemed reluctant to pose for a picture. Gethefer questioned the aim of such training methods, asking about the implications of swinging dogs into the air by their collars.

Metro Police reported that dogs at the facility, many rescued from California, were trained and sold for prices exceeding $600. This was described as an excessive fee for a rescue animal. Furthermore, investigators believe the organization was preparing to expand its services to include training dogs for private individuals.

The police are also highlighting the increased penalties for animal abuse under Reba’s Law, which holds bystanders accountable for failing to report acts of cruelty. Detective Nancy Leyva of the Animal Cruelty Division emphasized the importance of community responsibility in reporting abuse, stating that individuals who adopt animals must honor their commitments to these pets.

With a focus on the care and rehabilitation of the seized dogs, Metro is working to ensure they find safe and loving homes. Reports of the alleged abuse appear to stem from former employees, as Working Dogs of Nevada restricted public visibility of their training methods. In the previous year, Metro managed around 110 felony animal cruelty cases and encourages reporting any animal abuse to Animal Protective Services or through 311.