Man Who Burned Puppy Sentenced

An Oceanside man who pleaded guilty to animal abuse for burning a six-month-old Bichon puppy with hot water hurt the animal accidentally and tried to treat the injury, but took it to a veterinarian when the wounds became infected, his attorney said today.

Abed Dubester, 22, pleaded guilty earlier this month to misdemeanor animal abuse.

The injured puppy, named Stewie, suffered second- and third-degree burns over half of his body, according to Humane Society officials.

Officers seized Stewie on March 29, 2011, filed for protective custody and began an investigation.

Randy Lawrence, director of Humane Law Enforcement for the San Diego Humane Society and SPCA, said there was no doubt the abuse was intentional.

But Dubester's attorney, Sean Leslie, said the puppy was burned accidentally and that the defendant tried to take care of the injured animal for three days before taking it to a veterinarian.

"He (Dubester) thought he could handle it," Leslie said.

At his sentencing, Dubester was placed on two years probation and ordered to pay restitution in an amount to be determined for the dog's medical care, Leslie said.

According to Deputy District Attorney Kate Flaherty, the defendant can't legally own an animal for five years.

Stewie has recovered from his injuries and has been adopted into a loving home, according to officials.

— City News Service