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]…