Man accused of abandoning sled dogs pleads guilty

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By The Associated Press

Story Published: Jul 22, 2008 at 6:36 AM MST

Story Updated: Jul 22, 2008 at 6:36 AM MST

BOZEMAN - A West Yellowstone man accused of abandoning 33 sled dogs without food, water or shelter has pleaded guilty to two counts of misdemeanor animal cruelty.

Twenty-four-year-old John Hessert initially pleaded not guilty to one felony count of aggravated animal cruelty and 33 misdemeanor counts of animal cruelty. The felony charge was dropped as part of a plea agreement.

Hessert was accused of keeping the dogs in an unsafe environment outside West Yellowstone near Targhee Pass. A veterinarian determined that the dogs were underfed and some had frostbite. Hessert will not be allowed to own or be in control of a dog for two years.

Tuesday, Jul 22 at 10:15 AM mooselover wrote ...

How about not being able to EVER own or be in control of a dog. I don't think two years is enough!

Tuesday, Jul 22 at 4:31 PM Samantha wrote ...

I completely agree mooselover - our court system should mandate animal compassion classes for anyone who abuses or neglects animals. PETA has a really effective course that Michael Vick was ordered to attend. Animal abuse is a sickness that needs to be addressed - jail time just doesn't get it. When the abuser gets out, they're likely to repeat the same behavior.

Monday, Aug 4 at 11:14 AM Joe wrote ...

Don't be absurd. Locals tried to steal the dogs and everyone jumped all over John armed with misinformation and mis-led assumptions. Comparing John to Michael Vick is the stupidest thing I've ever heard. Compare someone who has won numerous dog care awards and is widely known as a disorganized but good-hearted and talented dog driver to a spoiled pro-football player who fought and killed dogs for money in his back yard? Posts like this are part of what created this media mess.

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