A little Jack Russell Terrier named Gideon has captured hearts across the country and the world with his story of survival and love.
But while Gideon is now safe and thriving in his forever home, the alleged case of animal cruelty that brought him into the spotlight remains under investigation.
Gideon was rescued by the Detroit Animal Welfare Group (DAWG) in January after reports surfaced that he had been intentionally burned by scalding hot water in a bathtub in Detroit.
The puppy suffered third-degree burns across most of his body, injuries DAWG said were the result of being submerged in boiling water.
“I’ve never been, 13 years of rescue, in 20 years of anesthesia, seen any living being in so much pain,” said Kelly LaBonty, Director of DAWG.
“We didn’t think he was going to survive,” said Janet Austin, DAWG volunteer, Gideon’s foster mom (and now permanent dog mom). “So, my husband and I just focused on giving him the daily care he needed.”
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That care included daily bandage changes, pain medication, soothing creams, and even skin grafts.
For months, Gideon fought through intense pain and emotional trauma.
Some days are better than others, but he continues to live with the long-term effects of his injuries: skin damage, limited mobility, lingering fear, and even nightmares.
But the love for Gideon has never wavered and has only become stronger.
DAWG and the hashtag “#GideonStrong" show stories, photos, and videos of the pup’s progress.
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Supporters from across the country, Tennessee, Kentucky, Illinois, and Pennsylvania, sent gifts and even traveled by car and plane just to meet the brave little dog over the weekend.
More than 1,500 people gathered at Bubba’s 33 in Macomb for the chance to see him in person.
“The line was wrapped around the restaurant,” said LaBonty.
“People were waiting over an hour just to meet him. He has quite a following,” said Austin."
On Monday (April 7), Gideon’s playful spirit shines despite his ongoing recovery.
“He’s just trying to live the puppy life,” said Austin.
Austin and her husband officially adopted Gideon and shared photos of him playing with his new furry brother and sister.
“The thought of him having to transition to another home just didn’t feel right,” Austin said. “He’s family.”
But DAWG and Gideon’s supporters are pushing for justice and calling on the Wayne County Prosecutor’s Office to act.
Despite the severity of the abuse, the case has not yet led to charges.
“We hope we get prosecution for Gideon,” said LaBonty. “Not just a slap on the wrist or probation.”
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In a series of statements to Local 4, the prosecutor’s office said they began working on the case four weeks ago and are still gathering evidence.
They said they cannot rely on Facebook posts or allegations from various online chats.
“We must prove a case beyond a reasonable doubt by having facts and evidence that can be presented in a court of law,” the Wayne County Prosecutor’s Office said.
Regarding concerns about other animals in the alleged abuser’s home, the Wayne County Prosecutor’s Office said:
“Our investigator has been to the house several times and has not seen or heard evidence of other dogs in the home. There have been no reports of other abuse incidents at the home, or evidence of abuse of another dog, that WCPO is aware of.”
While DAWG believes they’ve presented enough to move forward and are frustrated with the time this takes, they are trying to stay patient.
“We only have one chance at this,” said Austin. “And if we don’t do it right, they walk away. That’s not the message we want to send.”
Gideon’s story is a reminder of the many animals in need of rescue, care, and justice.
