No new leads in Shawano County dog shooting case as groups offer $2,500 reward

A dog nicknamed "Sunny" recovers from gunshot wounds and other injuries after being found July 15, 2026, in Shawano County. (Photo courtesy Shawano Co. Sheriff's Office)

SHAWANO, WI (WTAQ-WLUK) — Animal rights groups are offering a reward for information leading to the arrest, prosecution, and conviction of the person or people responsible for the shooting and abuse of a dog found in Shawano County.

The mixed breed dog, nicknamed “Sunny,” was taken to the humane society on July 15 after being found near the area of Cedar Drive and Maple Road in the town of Maple Grove, suffering from nine gunshot wounds and other injuries.

Veterinary staff reported Sunny also had a broken leg, broken ribs and numerous other traumatic injuries. It is believed by authorities that the injuries occurred two to four days before Sunny was found.

The Center for a Humane Economy and the Wisconsin Puppy Mill Project are offering a $2,500 reward for information on the case.

“It’s hard to fathom the level of cruelty that this sweet boy was subjected to,” said Paul Collins, the Wisconsin state director for Animal Wellness Action and Center for a Humane Economy. “There is no justification for the abhorrent acts committed against Sunny, and we are asking that anyone with information about this horrendous act come forward. We want to see the person(s) responsible for this brought to justice without delay.”

“The Wisconsin Puppy Mill Project is shocked by the life-threatening injuries to this precious animal,” said Eilene Ribbens, executive director of the Wisconsin Puppy Mill Project. “We are grateful to the Shawano Animal Shelter for caring for Sunny and to the Sheriff’s Department for taking this matter seriously. A person capable of this level of cruelty to an innocent animal also poses a threat to our community.”

As of Thursday, Shawano County authorities say there is nothing new to report on the case.

Sunny continues to recover at the Shawano County Humane Society. A Facebook post earlier this week said Sunny would undergo surgery on Wednesday or Thursday.

Please continue to keep Sunny in your thoughts as he faces the next step in his recovery. We’ll share updates as we are able. Thank you again for standing with Sunny and showing him just how many people are rooting for him.