Livingston County authorities are investigating a disturbing case of animal abuse in Wheeling.

Sheriff Steve Cox says a caller saw the dog shot by an arrow and struck multiple times with a pitchfork and a hammer.

In a news release, Cox said a caller May 21 reported hearing a dog yelping in pain and then saw a black colored dog with an arrow sticking out of it. The dog was walking towards a man who then began stabbing the dog multiple times with a pitch fork.

Deputies have dealt with the on several prior occasions. The animal attacked and injured a young person several months ago, and at that time Cox says the owner refused to put the animal down.

This time, the animal attacked the owners brother, and became agressive when the owner tried to put a shock collar on the dog.

Cox says the animal owner basically reported being concerned for the safety of the public and his family, and felt it was best to put the dog down.

Not having a firearm, Cox says the animal owner then shot the dog with a bow and arrow. Then he used both a pitch fork and hammer to stab and strike the dog multiple times, and finally shot the animal a second time with the bow and arrow, Cox says.

The deputy took photos of the dog and other evidence along with statements from those involved.

On May 20, the department began an investigation in Utica of a report of animal abuse/neglect. The caller was concerned the dogs were not being fed and watered properly. The investigating deputy discovered several dogs without food and water.

The animal’s owner advised he purchases dog food each month and also provides food scraps to the dogs. One specific dog did not appear to be properly nourished. Photos were taken of the animals and the animals were fed while the deputy was present.

Cox says follow-up checks are pending and the investigation continues. The animal owner claimed to have been in trouble in the past for not properly caring for animals.

Cox says reports on both cases will be submitted to Livingston County Prosecuting Attorney Adam Warren for his review and consideration.