Police said Jared Levi Colony, 28, of 1708 Hollywood Blvd., was watching a 4-month-old Puggle puppy, Pip, with his friend on Oct. 17. Police said Colony was watching the dog for an unidentified owner for about 30 minutes at 913 S. Gilbert Court.
While the owner was away, Colony poured UV brand flavored vodka into Pip’s bowl and encouraged the dog to drink it, police said.
When the dog’s owner returned to the residence, Pip was unresponsive, his tongue was hanging out and the dog was barely breathing. Police said Colony told the owner, “Pip’s just a little drunk right now.”
When reached at his home today, Colony declined comment.
Iowa City Police Sgt. Troy Kelsay said Colony and the dog’s owner were acquaintances, but he didn’t know the extent of their relationship.
“I don’t know what Colony was thinking,” Kelsay said. “I suspect he thought it was funny. You’re talking about a 4-month-old living creature…It isn’t humorous at all.”
Police said Pip received critical care for nearly two days at Bright Eyes and Bushy Tails veterinary hospital and barely survived alcohol poisoning.
Robinette Dunahugh, a veterinarian at Bright Eyes and Bushy Tails, said she couldn’t talk about this specific case, but said alcohol affects dogs much in the same way it affects people. Dunahugh said puppies’ organs are not fully developed and giving a young dog alcohol would be like giving it to an infant. Dunahugh said a 4-month-old Puggle would average around 10 to 15 pounds.
Additionally, giving a dog alcohol can lead to severe respiratory depression; loss of consciousness and motor functions and vomiting.
Like with people, alcohol poisoning can kill a dog, Donahugh said.
Colony was charged with animal abuse, an aggravated misdemeanor. Colony faces up to two years in prison and a fine up to $5,000.
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