Merlin the cat was found emaciated and filthy in front of a furniture store – the animal welfare organization Kellerranch is caring for the sick animal
The animal rights organization PETA is investigating an abandoned cat found in Weiterstadt. According to a media report, the 19-year-old cat, Merlin, was discovered in a plastic box in front of a furniture store. The animal was severely emaciated and filthy. PETA has offered a reward of 500 euros for information leading to the person responsible and their conviction.
Customers of the furniture store discovered the cat. A note with his name and age was found in the plastic box. The finders took Merlin to the Kellerranch animal rescue organization, where he has been cared for ever since.
The cat suffers from a pancreatic disease. According to the animal rights organization, he receives special food and daily veterinary treatment, including intravenous fluids.
PETA is asking for information about the abandoned cat
To help solve the case, PETA is offering a reward of 500 euros. It will be paid for information leading to the conviction of the responsible person or persons.
“We want to help uncover who left Merlin in the plastic box. Such an act not only means that the animals involved are left to fend for themselves from one moment to the next, it can cause severe physical and psychological suffering,” explains Lisa Redegeld, expert advisor at PETA.
Anyone who has made observations or has information about the case can contact the police or PETA directly. Information can also be provided anonymously.
Abandoning pets is prohibited
PETA points out that abandoning animals is prohibited under Section 3 of the Animal Welfare Act. Under certain circumstances, such an act can also constitute the criminal offense of animal cruelty under Section 17.
A conviction for such an offense can result in a fine or imprisonment of up to three years. Inadequate care or failure to provide necessary assistance can also have consequences under animal welfare law.
The organization regularly offers rewards to help solve cases in which animals have been abused or abandoned.
Further information and notes
Notes on the Merlin case:
- PETA phone number: 0711 8605910
- Email: whistleblower@peta.de
- Note: Anonymous options are also available
- Reward: 500 euros for information leading to a legally binding conviction
Further information:
- Report animal cruelty to PETA
- Information about abandoned animals
- What should you do if you find an abandoned animal?
- Information about animal shelters
(RED/PM/Judith Stich)
Featured image: kmerriman/pexels
