Although the case is compelling, it’s still hard to let the mind linger on the facts of the Montevallo dog-skinning case.

Dr. Rhonda Ellison, a Calera veterinarian who treated and euthanized the 12-pound black pug that had been skinned alive, called the incident “the worst thing I’ve seen in 15 years.”

We agree. The facts of the story are sickening and terrifying, both for the pug’s family and for Shelby County citizens.

A reward for information leading to an arrest in the case continues to grow, now up to $3,500 from the Humane Society of the United States and $10,000 from the Greater Birmingham Humane Society.

The Greater Birmingham Humane Society award, made by an anonymous donor, will be split into $2,500 to be paid when an arrest is made and $7,500 to be paid when a conviction is reached.

Anyone who gives information crucial to solving the case is in line for a handsome financial reward, but we urge anyone with information to come forward for reasons beyond the potential monetary gain.

We must show that animal cruelty will not be tolerated in Shelby County. We are a leader in this state and this country in many things — we must be a leader on this issue as well.

Studies show that people who torture and kill animals eventually graduate to the next step on the totem pole — other people. For the safety of Shelby County citizens, this crime must be solved as soon as possible.

It is probable that whoever skinned this small, defenseless dog has mental problems that demand psychiatric assistance.

If you have information that could help lead to this person — or people — being caught, you will have helped the people of Shelby County as well as the perpetrator of this crime.

Anyone with information or wishing to donate to the reward amount should contact the Chilton County Sheriff’s Department at 755-4698.

You can also make a pledge toward the Greater Birmingham Humane Society’s reward amount by calling the organization at 397-8539.

The We Say is the opinion of the Shelby County Reporter editorial board.