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Horrendous animal abuse has now reached Saratoga
By Jason Baker
A heinous act of cruelty against animals has spread to Saratoga, and officials say pet owners should be concerned.
During the past several weeks, eight domestic cats have been found mutilated in San Jose's Almaden Valley neighborhoods. The confirmed killings of two domestic cats during the July 24 weekend and a report of another killing early last week raised the total to 11.
While two of the three new reports again came from the Almaden Valley area, the third reported mutilation occurred in the Aloha Avenue neighborhood of Saratoga.
Officials still have no leads in the attacks.
Officials from the Humane Society of Santa Clara County have described the mutilations as the most vicious acts against animals that they've witnessed in years. According to reports, the cats have been cut in half, gutted, skinned and left on or near their owners' property.
Officials are distressed that the animals' carcasses are being tossed on or near their owners' homes.
"Obviously, our main mission is to prevent cruelty to animals," said Marcia Mayeda, director of animal services for the society. "But we are aware that violent offenders often begin with animals because they are an easy target and are not afforded the same legal protections as people."
The first attacks, reported on June 27 and 28, occurred in the Almaden Lake area, off Almaden Expressway near Coleman Road and Camden Avenue. Six cases have been reported around Almaden Expressway, south of Camden Avenue. Authorities speculated the attackers might be striking along Almaden Expressway because it provides an easy escape route.
Mayeda said the victimized cats were older pets, most between 10 and 13 years old.
"Unfortunately, it's not uncommon to hear of cats being mutilated or beaten," she said. "What is uncommon is to have them returned to their owners. This person has an obvious need to hurt these families."
The pet owners have declined public comment. Many don't want to give those responsible any satisfaction by talking openly about the crimes.
San Jose police are working the case and responding to calls with Humane Society officials.
A reward fund has also been established and has raised almost $8,500 for information leading to an arrest. Anyone with information is asked to call the society's investigations department at (408) 727-6529. Witnesses who see the act in progress may also call 911.
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Saratoga, California Since 1955
