‘This Feels a Bit Malicious’: Man Says Someone Shot his Dog in Miami Gardens

A Miami Gardens man is seeking justice after his dog, a pit bull mix named Smoke, was shot outside his home earlier this week. Fitzgerald Lawrence, the dog’s owner, says he’s devastated and confused about who would harm his pet, whom he calls “like a son.” Lawrence, who has had Smoke for three years, says the two share a close bond — even the same birthday. “I’ve had him since he was six months old,” he said. “He’s all I’ve got.” On Monday, Lawrence briefly left his apartment, unaware that Smoke had somehow gotten out. When he returned home, he found his dog injured, with blood on his face and a serious wound on his side.

From Confusion to Shock at the Vet

Initially, Lawrence thought the injury might have come from a fight with another animal. “I was thinking maybe he got into it with a bird or another dog, or even some chickens or ducks,” he said. But after a closer look, it became clear the injury was more serious than a scrape or animal bite. He rushed Smoke to the Advanced Veterinary Care Center in Davie, where vets confirmed his worst fear — Smoke had been shot. Dr. Jon Rappaport, who treated the dog, said the bullet passed through Smoke’s body and left fragments behind. “We’re doing everything we can to support this dog who has unfortunately been through a brutal time,” Rappaport said. “He’s a strong dog; he’s an ox. He’s been through a lot and hung in there so far, and we hope he can continue to do so.”

Dog Undergoes Emergency Surgery

Smoke underwent emergency surgery to remove the bullet fragments and stabilize his condition. The injury was severe, but vets are optimistic about his recovery, noting his strength and resilience. Lawrence, still shaken, says he’s not the type to cry or ask for help, but this incident has left him deeply distressed. “I haven’t been able to sleep in a couple of days,” he admitted. “I doubt he attacked anyone, so this just feels malicious. We’re trying to find out who did this.”

Police Investigating the Incident

The Miami Gardens Police Department has opened an investigation into the shooting. Detectives are working to gather surveillance video from the area around Lawrence’s apartment complex to identify the person responsible. Lawrence says he isn’t looking for trouble but wants to understand what happened. “We want to know who shot him and see if we can have some type of discussion with them,” he said. “Maybe there was a misunderstanding — we just want to talk.” As Smoke continues his recovery, Lawrence hopes that someone will come forward with information. He’s calling on the community to help him find answers and bring justice for the dog he considers family.