Ypsilanti, MI (December 31, 2025) — The Humane Society of Huron Valley (HSHV) is investigating a complaint involving the alleged abuse of a dog whose footage was captured on a doorbell camera in Ypsilanti.
The video, reportedly taken late last week on Ypsilanti’s South Street, appears to show a man running onto a porch, grabbing what appears to be a pit-bull mix with light-colored fur, striking the dog several times, then lifting and dragging the dog by the neck while walking down the steps off the porch. In the footage, the dog’s legs appear to be lifted off the ground as the animal is scuffed along.
HSHV investigators are working to identify the individual involved and determine the condition and whereabouts of the dog.
“This video is deeply concerning,” said Eric Wright, HSHV’s Cruelty and Rescue Manager. “Violence toward animals is unacceptable and may constitute a criminal offense. We are asking anyone who recognizes the person, the dog, or who has additional information about this incident to call us.”
“We are very worried for this dog’s safety and well-being,” said Tanya Hilgendorf, HSHV’s CEO. “One of the most heartbreaking parts of this video, is the dog’s immediate cowering before being struck, suggesting a life lived in fear. Violence—whether toward animals or children—does not teach; it causes trauma and sometimes aggression. We can lose our tempers in stressful situations, but hitting isn’t training, it’s abuse. I hate sharing this on the eve of a new year, but hope it helps remind us that love, patience, and protection should guide how we treat those smaller, weaker, and dependent on us.”
HSHV urges members of the public who may have witnessed the incident or who recognize the individual or dog in the footage to contact its Cruelty Investigation Department at 734-661-3512 or hshv.org/report. Tips can be submitted confidentially.
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About The Humane Society of Huron Valley (HSHV):
The Humane Society of Huron Valley, located in Ann Arbor, is an independent 501(c)(3) non-profit organization and relies solely on the generosity of our supporters to provide critical community programs and services. HSHV is an award-winning organization, recognized for our best practices and highest animal “save-rate” among all similar shelters in Michigan. Charity Navigator, the nation’s top charity evaluator, awarded HSHV a 4-star ranking, the highest possible. The mission of HSHV is to promote the loving, responsible care of all animals in our community. HSHV is not affiliated with any other humane organization and does not receive funding from the United Way. More information can be found on HSHV’s website (hshv.org) and on our annual report (hshv.org/annualreport).