A Missoula family says they fear that a neighbor is targeting them by shooting their pets in the Lower Rattlesnake.

Imagine coming home and finding your family pet shot and barely alive, then imagine it happening twice. That's just what happened to one Missoula family who now say they want to bring awareness in case your family pet is the next target.

  (Photo courtesy of 8 KPAX News)  "We were out skiing at Pattee Canyon and we came back to find Simon" explained Cherry Street resident Traci Scharfe.

This was not the first time the couple had to come home and find one of their pets shot. Back in September, their cat Boots died from the same type of pellet gun wound.

"So the first time we were bummed and we thought maybe it was some kids out messing around, and the second time we know it's someone in the neighborhood" said Scharfe.

Traci and Wayne have their suspicions but without proof on a suspect, police can't hand out an animal cruelty charge.

With one injured cat, heartache and a list of questions as to why this has happened, the couple is hoping others keep a close eye on neighborhood pets.

Simon is in good spirits, but its still too early to tell if he will lose his injured leg.

We spoke with the Missoula Police Department, where officials say that even if a cat can be a nuisance to some, its illegal to shoot or harm an animal.

Anyone caught doing so can face charges of animal cruelty and a violations for shooting within city limits.

Meanwhile, Traci and Wayne are offering a reward for any information leading to charges in their case.

Anyone having information about these 2 cat shootings should contact the Missoula Police Department at 406-552-6300.

Reference:

8 KPax News