Puppy Abused By Mineola Man Accused Of Killing Two Other Dogs Faces More Surgery

"She still has a long road ahead of her, but she is improving," said Detective Matt Roper, with the SPCA. 

Roper said that Bella is scheduled for another surgery later this week to remove the plates that were placed in her leg that was broken in two places.

• Related story: Mineola Husband, Wife Charged With Animal Cruelty After Deaths Of Two Puppies

When brought to the SPCA, Bella had been beaten and choked and had several broken ribs, a broken leg, and pulmonary contusions, Roper said.

The man accused of her abuse is Ellie Knoller, 29, of Mineola, who was charged with three counts of aggravated cruelty to animals and three counts of overdriving, torturing and injuring animals on Wednesday, May 15, said Nassau County District Attorney Madeline Singas and the SPCA.

He is accused of buying two other puppies before Bella and allegedly beating and choking them to death, the DA's Office said. 

His wife, Jessica Kuncman, also known as Jessica Knoller, 30, was charged with overdriving, torturing and injuring animals, the DA's Office said.

Because of the severity of her injuries, the SPCA has an online fundraiser in hopes of raising enough money to cover her care. 

"She's a fighter," Roper said. "I think she will make it."

To help Bella, visit http://luckytobealive.ncspca.us.

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