Harvard the dog.jpg

Harvard the dog was rescued by Cleveland police Sunday. The photo on the left shows the bloodied pet shortly after the rescue. The photo on the right was taken a few days later.

(Photos courtesy Cleveland Police)

CLEVELAND, Ohio – A Cleveland man arraigned Thursday morning on an animal cruelty charge is accused of beating his dog with a brick.

Officers rescued the pit-bull mix Sunday after the owner's neighbors called police to report the man was attacking the pet in the middle of East 138th Street and Harvard Avenue, police said.

Peris Rice

Peris Rice, 25, whipped the dog with a belt and used a brick to hit the animal in the face, witnesses told police.

Rice left the dog with a witness and fled the scene before officers arrived, police said.

Witnesses identified the suspect and an arrest warrant was issued. Police took Rice into custody Wednesday.

Fourth District Patrol Officer Brandon Melbar adopted the dog and named him Harvard.

"[Harvard's] doing great," Melbar said Thursday.

Melbar, who about six months ago fostered another dog rescued by his fellow officers, said he connected with Harvard when they first met.

"Right when I first saw him, he was extremely playful and friendly," Melbar said. "I knew he needed a place to go, and I've been looking for a dog so I decided to take him in."

Harvard was treated for injuries to his face, legs and paws at VCA Great Lakes Vet Specialists. The treatment was paid for by animal advocacy group Badges for Bullies.

Police said donations for Harvard's care can be made by visiting badgesforbullies.com