Family dog shot in Waynesville; police seek information

A dog suffered minor injuries from a gunshot wound and police are looking for information about the incident, according to Waynesville Police Chief Gary Copeland.

Officers responded Jan. 4 to the 400 block of Beaumont Court after a dog named Otis was shot, Copeland said in a social media post Monday afternoon. Police were unable to locate anyone firing a gun.

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The investigation revealed that a stray bullet came from the woods west of the property, Copeland said.

Officers have been attempting to contact the owner of the Michener farm, where the shot is believed to have come, to see whether anyone authorized target practice or hunting.

Otis’ owner posted on social media that the dog will need surgery to remove the bullet, but he is expected to recover. Otis appears to be a Sharpei, and the owner also is asking the public to help police in the investigation.

Whoever shot the dog “should be responsible for the bills that follow the treatment of any injury such as this and also need to be held accountable,” the owner said via social media.

Copeland said police have interviewed neighbors and have collected a video (from the dog’s residence), photos, statements and the dog’s veterinary records.

Anyone with information is urged to call police at 513-897-8010.