Gucci, dog that survived torture and inspired tougher animal cruelty laws in Alabama, dies at 16

MOBILE, Ala. — A dog who was severely burned as a puppy in a case that drew worldwide attention and led to tougher animal cruelty laws in Alabama has died.

Doug James rescued the dog named Gucci after it was hung by the neck, tortured and set on fire by a group of youths in 1994. James said the 16-year-old chow-husky mix had been in declining health in the past few months and was euthanized on Wednesday.

Passed in 2000, the Pet Protection Act, called Gucci's law, made first-degree cruelty to a domesticated dog or cat a felony punishable by up to 10 years in prison and a $5,000 fine.

Abuse and neglect of a cat or dog is a misdemeanor punishable by up to a year in jail and a $2,000 fine.

James said Gucci turned 16 on Monday and his annual birthday party is scheduled Saturday at a local pet shop. He said the gathering will now be a memorial service.

-- Associated Press

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Photo: Gucci in a 2003 photo. Credit: G.M. Andrews / Associated Press

Comments

[JMG]

Stories like this make me like people less than I already do. RIP Gucci!!!!

[Parry]

What a sweetheart Gucci was. And his torturers are probably doing ten to twenty in the state pen. That's where sadistic abusers usually end up. Rest in peace, Gucci.

[stephen ct]

God bless the person who took care of this sweet dog and provided him with happiness and love for the rest of his life after he went through such a horrible ordeal.And may God punish the thugs who committed the cruelty to him.

[karen lyons kalmenson]

gucci your heart and couraged inspired
and your goodness is so admired
you experienced the worst of man
and yet did not flinch at his hand
because of you there are tougher laws
perhaps to make future abusers pause
RIP sweet symbol of hope and faith
you are with god now
and forever safe

[Sandy Chan]

I believe torture like this still happen in all parts of the world and if I've been granted a wish, I would wish all these cruel monsters will get their Karma and may all the animal rescuers be blessed with good health and happiness.
Rest In Peace Gucci. You were a strong little one.

[Clara]

I'm crying right now... I see the picture of Gucci and I can't stop starring at his eyes... I just can't believe that someone made this horrible thing to an animal... We're supposed to be human beings, not monsters... I'm really in chock... He is so cute, and I bet that hi's really loyal, and faithful... It's horrible to think that someone made that to him...

[Mark]

Poor thing, hes been through a lot, at least there is something to remember him by.

[Sessily E.]

I'm writing my research paper on this amazing dog. People need to know this story.