Deputies investigate dog skinned in Clark County

PORTLAND, Ore. (KOIN) — A small dog was reportedly killed and skinned in a Salmon Creek neighborhood on October 9.

The Clark County Sheriff’s Office is investigating the death, which was reported to deputies but not initially investigated.

The Sheriff’s Office says animal cruelty is a crime and it’s law enforcement’s responsibility to investigate.

“I’m at a loss right now to explain why we did not respond to this incident on Sunday when it was reported,” Under sheriff Mike Cooke said in a press release. “I met with the family today after finding out this occurred and I feel absolutely terrible about what happened. A deputy sheriff is now conducting a full criminal investigation and we are also in the process of determining why there was no initial response.”

Deputies say it does appear to be a human-caused death and a forensic exam will determine exact cause of death.

The department asks anyone with information to call 877.274.6311.