Ranger rescued, owner fined

Sept. 2– Ranger, the German shepherd left to suffer in the summer heat without food or water fit for drinking, has been surrendered by his owner to the Savannah Animal Services Department.

Robert Blanton, 28, of 140 Willow St., pleaded guilty to a charge of animal cruelty Tuesday in Hardin County General Sessions Court.

Animal Services Director Charlie Nickle said that following The Courier’s story on Blanton’s arrest, several people have come forward wanting to adopt Ranger, who was emaciated and infected with blood-sucking intestinal parasites.

Judge Danny Smith fined Blanton $100 and prohibited him from owning another dog for one year. Blanton must also pay restitution of $312 to Animal Services to cover the cost of the abused dog’s care.

Nickle said Ranger’s health is improving and he is gaining weight.

"It looks like it’s going to be a good ending for him," he said.