My comment was regarding 10 years in prison....
If it was true abuse and the animal was significantly injured then hit him with a $500 fine and potential loss of the animal....
BTW, I train large dogs for everything from Protection to Search and Rescue, generally GSDs. I use treats for training and praise.....but there have been the occasional bite on the ear for a a very renascent puppy, it is an effective tool... And yes.....they do yelp!
Actually, I do agree that 10 years is excessive. I do believe he abused the puppy but his actions aren’t as egregious as some of the animal abuse stories I’ve heard lately. He doesn’t have the patience or temperament to own a puppy.
As I stated in my original post, I’m just more sensitive about this subject because I have a dog that was abused and neglected by her former owners. Even though I’ve had her for over a year, she still flinches when anyone starts to pet her. It’s sad because she’s as sweet as they come.
I respect you for training service dogs.