Deputies in Jensen Beach say a five-month-old puppy is recovering in shelter care and its owner is facing an animal-cruelty charge after the dog suffered a violent seizure that veterinarians tied to cocaine exposure. Neighbors told investigators they watched the man hoist and choke the puppy until a bystander stepped in and the animal was rushed to an emergency clinic.
Martin County investigators say the case started on April 28, when neighbors reported hearing the dog’s screams and witnessing the alleged attack. The puppy, identified in shelter photos as Inga, is now in protective custody at the Humane Society of the Treasure Coast, according to WPBF.
Veterinary Findings and Shelter Care
A deputy drove the puppy to an emergency veterinary hospital, where staff determined the dog’s medical crisis matched what they typically see in cocaine exposure cases. Deputies told reporters that veterinarians ruled out other likely causes and that Inga was transferred into shelter care while detectives continue their investigation, according to FOX 35 Orlando.
Witness Accounts and Sheriff’s Response
One neighbor, Casey Rosica, said she jumped out of her truck when she heard the commotion and saw the puppy “about six and a half feet in the air” as the owner held it up. She told reporters he dropped the dog when she confronted him, according to WPBF.
Martin County Sheriff John Budensiek did not sugarcoat his reaction, calling what deputies described “disgusting ... it’s disgusting.” Investigators say 62-year-old John Burt Sparhawk was taken into custody on an outstanding warrant as deputies started working the animal-cruelty case, as reported by WFLX.
How Stimulants Affect Dogs
Veterinary references note that stimulants such as cocaine can trigger dilated pupils, frantic behavior, tremors, and seizures in dogs, and that treatment is usually supportive, focusing on stabilizing heart rate and body temperature while the drug leaves the system. Those symptoms match what deputies say they saw at the scene, according to the Merck Veterinary Manual.
What Happens Next
According to deputies, Sparhawk has been charged with animal cruelty and was arrested on the warrant, then later released while the case moves forward. Investigators say they have not yet determined whether additional charges will be filed as they sort through veterinary findings and witness statements, per reporting by FOX5 Vegas.
