Man arrested after throwing girlfriend’s dog at a wall, police say

CEDAR RAPIDS — A 21-year-old man was charged with animal abuse Wednesday after police said he threw his girlfriend’s small dog against a wall during a fight.

Cedar Rapids police said officers were called just after 11:30 p.m. to an apartment unit at Shamrock Condominiums, 5055 Johnson Ave. SW, for a commotion.

Police said Michael James Constant told an officer he had lost his temper with his girlfriend and threw her 5-pound Yorkshire terrier against a wall or door in the hallway of their apartment.

According to police, Constant thought the dog was severely injured or dead because it was not moving after being thrown.

Police said officers contacted the girlfriend and checked on the dog, which was still alive and laying on a bed. The dog had difficulty standing, was disoriented and appeared to have pain in the neck area.

A veterinarian found the 6-year-old Yorkie named Princess had a buildup of fluid on the brain causing brain swelling and a likely slipped or bulging disk.

Police said the veterinarian attributed the injuries to the trauma the dog had suffered.

Constant was arrested and taken to the Linn County Correctional Center.

The dog was seized by Animal Care & Control officers and is recovering at the shelter.

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