Police: Franklin woman lit dogs on fire

FRANKLIN, Ind. (WISH) - Two dogs are recovering after their owner doused them with gasoline and burned them alive. Amazingly, she says she thought it was the most humane way she could get rid of them.

The dogs are now safe, but scarred both physically and emotionally.  Michael Delp is the Director of Johnson County Animal Control, "They are very keen to facial expression and voice - a small soft spoken voice, gentle caresses."

The dogs were thrown into a 55 gallon burn barrel, doused with gasoline and burned alive. According to the probable cause, 36-year-old Katherine Brotherton of Franklin says she lit the family dogs on fire because she says one had a neurological disorder and bit her. She thought it was the most humane way to kill them.

Michael Delp, "I try to imagine him trying to get out of that tub while he is on fire and being beaten back down."

Jake is a black lab mix puppy just 6 months old. "You can see on his back hind paws are just raw meat."  Burned over 85% of his body, Jake shakes and rarely moves.

Delp explains Jake's condition, "He is still recovering from shock. When he as taken to the vet his body temperatur was 75 degrees. Normal for a dog is 104."

Right next to him is Boomer, his left ear singed.  Delp says, "He's not nearly as severe as Jake, but some scarring and emotional trauma too.  We are starting to see Boomer come out of it a little bit."

Boomer is a 5-year-old Blue Heeler.  Officers say spent his life outside tied up to a chain.

The Animal Control director stresses there are options if you can't or won't take care of your animal.  "We have a dedicated staff who works with these animals everyday.  Do the right thing and give them another chance."

For Jake and Boomer the physical recovery is good.  Their emotional healing remains to be seen.