In May 2015 in South Carolina, thisdog's muzzle was plastered all over the internet after she had suffered from a horrific injury as a result of having her jaw taped shut.
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The staffordshire terrier, named Caitlyn suffered from a broken jaw after her owner taped her muzzle shut because 'she wouldn't shut up.' The tape was on for 48 but that was enough to do some serious damage to the pup's face. Caitlyn managed to escape her owner's property and was found by the Charleston Animal Society.
The tragic story touched the hearts of millions and money was raised to get Caitlyn the jaw surgery she so desperately needed.
Two years after the ordeal Caitlyn's former owner, William Leonard Dodsen, was sentenced to five years in prison, the maximum sentence for animal abuse in the state of Carolina. Dodsen is still serving time after accumulating another 15 years on charges relating to drugs and illegal weapons.
The prosecutor of the case Ted Corvey, states her remembers meeting Caitlyn and made a connection with the skittish pup:
I really formed a good connection with her, so that got me really emotionally invested in the case. From there, we just started preparing it for trial.
After being hosted by various foster homes, Corvey ended up adopting Caitlyn in hopes of giving her a much better life than the one she suffered through previously:
She’s super sweet and very playful and, like I said, my wife and I are just very lucky to have her.
Now even five years after the incident Caitlyn is still often recognised around her neighbourhood and this good dog, of course, gets all the loving attention of passers-by who are impressed by her recovery and strength.
In fact, Caitlyn's scars have become iconic, and are now the international symbol of animal crueltyand People magazine named her 'Survivor of the Year' back in 2015. This dog's battle has even been inspiring those facing domestic abuse of their own. Corvey stated that Caitlyn has been an inspiration for many:
Not just animal abuse victims, but humans too, who went through a hard time but were able to persevere.
The Charleston Animal Society even commented on the situation on their Facebook page:
We have received many emails and comments about how much she has been an inspiration for people in abusive situations and with scars! Her bravery in the face of such abuse and her beautiful scars have given many people hope for change in their own lives!
