The dog, formally named Bruno, but now known as Zeus since being adopted by the South Bend police officer who rescued him, was found running around near South Bend’s south side with a zip-tied muzzle.

Good Samaritans caught Bruno and SBPD officer Stephanie Northcutt was able to gain his trust and calm him while the zip tie was removed.

“We are extremely grateful that Bruno did not sustain any major, physical injuries, but I can only imagine the emotional turmoil he faced while he was abandoned with his mouth sealed shut,” said Samantha Chapman, Indiana state director for the Humane Society of the United States. “I thank the South Bend Animal Resource Center for taking Bruno’s case seriously and strongly encourage anyone with information pertaining to this extraordinarily cruel act to come forward so investigators can bring this case to justice.”

The South Bend Animal Resource Center is investigating the case and anyone with relevant information is asked to call them at 574-233-0311.

"Anyone that knows any information about Bruno's case and who tried to silence him, we ask that you please share it with the South Bend Animal Resource Center or the South Bend Police Department,” said Lindsey Cuellar, shelter manager for the South Bend Animal Resource Center. “We are proud to defend and be Bruno’s, and all animals who suffer abuse or neglect, voice through times like these."