A quiet Sunday afternoon in Kasson-Mantorville turned into a nightmare for one family when their dog was shot three times inside their secure backyard. Rival, a 5-year-old Husky, suffered severe injuries while simply relieving himself in the fenced yard on the 500 block of 2nd Street SW.[1][2] The incident, which occurred on March 29 between 2:40 p.m. and 3 p.m., has left the community stunned and the family desperate for answers.[3]
A Safe Space Violated
The attack unfolded in a place where Rival should have been protected. He stepped out to use the bathroom in the family’s fenced-in backyard, a routine moment for the bubbly pet who loves to sniff and play. By the time his owner reached the back door, blood poured from the dog’s mouth.[3]
Abigail Helder, who owns the home, recounted the horror: “He was outside going potty and by the time his dad got to the back door, he was bleeding from his mouth.” The shots came from outside the property, piercing the sense of safety in this Minnesota suburb. Neighbors heard nothing unusual, amplifying the family’s shock at the brazen act.[1]
Devastating Injuries Demand Immediate Action
Rival endured three bullets: two grazed his neck, carving large wounds, while the third shattered his lower jaw, destroying teeth and fracturing bone. Surgeons removed part of his lower left jaw during emergency procedures in the Twin Cities after initial care at Carriage House Animal Hospital in Kasson. The operation cost around $13,000, with more treatment needed for his long-term recovery.[2][3]
Permanently altered, Rival now faces dietary limits – no more chewing bones or hard foods – and heightened anxiety. Once outgoing, he has grown skittish in the yard, a heartbreaking change for the rescued show dog who came from Mexico at age 1.5. The family praised the veterinary team: “Without Carriage House’s help, Rival would have gone through much more pain than any dog should have to.”[3]
Police Launch Investigation Amid Mystery
Kasson Police Department responded swiftly, filing a report the next day and canvassing the area. Officers collected evidence, including suspected.22 caliber bullets recovered during surgery. No suspects have emerged, and the motive remains unclear.[1]
The investigation continues actively. Authorities urge tips from anyone nearby during the timeframe. Contact Kasson police at 507-634-3881 with information, as the department analyzes evidence for leads.[2]
Community Rallies Behind Rival’s Recovery
Faced with steep bills, the family turned to crowdfunding. A GoFundMe page launched by friend Marissa Leeman quickly surpassed $6,800 toward a $7,500 goal. Donations cover surgery and ongoing care, with shares amplifying the call for help.[1]
Leeman captured the anguish: “Our sweet dog, Rival, was brutally shot three times while simply using the bathroom in our fenced-in backyard… He was safe at home.” She added, “Rival is more than a pet; he is family. He didn’t deserve this pain.” The outpouring reflects Rival’s impact as a “sweet boy” in Kasson-Mantorville.[3]
- Emergency surgery: $13,000 covered partially by donations.
- Ongoing needs: Medications, therapy for anxiety, special diet.
- Goal: Full recovery and justice for the shooter.
- Shares requested: Boost visibility for tips.
- Police hotline: 507-634-3881 for leads.
Key Takeaways
- Rival survived grave wounds but carries lifelong scars from the jaw-shattering shot.
- No arrests yet; Kasson PD seeks public tips on the March 29 incident.
- GoFundMe nears goal, showing community solidarity for the Husky’s healing.
This senseless violence against a defenseless pet underscores vulnerabilities even in fenced havens. As Rival mends at home, his story unites a neighborhood in pursuit of accountability and compassion. What do you think about this case? Tell us in the comments.
