Iowa City man accused of animal abuse faces new charge

IOWA CITY - An Iowa City man accused of kicking and injuring a dog faces a new charge.

According to court records, 22-year-old Lucas S. Van Orden V, was charged last week with animal abuse. His original charge of animal neglect was dismissed, court records show.

Iowa City police said the dog suffered the injuries on July 9. On that day, the dog was at Creature Comfort Veterinary Center for grooming from 10:30 a.m. to 3:45 p.m. Van Orden was an employee at the center, and the dog was under his care during that time, police said.

Police said the dog suffered 'significant injuries,” including multiple rib fractures and bruising of the lungs. The dog required a stay at a pet emergency room for multiple nights for observation, police said.

Van Orden admitted to kicking the dog and causing the injuries, police said. The owners of Creature Comfort Veterinary Center said Van Orden was fired after the incident.

Court records show Van Orden is to enter a plea on or before Aug. 25.