VENICE, Calif. — A couple in California is blaming a FedEx driver for the death of their dog.
They say the tiny Yorkshire terrier, named “Cooper,” was crushed by a large package that was tossed over the fence.
The pet was the center of Mitchell Galin and Keiko Napier's world. She slept between them every night, the couple says.
"We've just had a horrible weekend,” Napier said.
They're blaming a FedEx delivery person for the loss of their 4-pound Yorkie.
They say a large box containing crystal and a second Christmas present was thrown over their fence and into their courtyard Saturday when Cooper was sunbathing.
"And I immediately picked up the box and Cooper was in a puddle of blood," Galin said.
Cooper’s X-rays showed extensive injuries.
Her veterinarian said she suffered serious injuries to her lungs and liver. The couple chose to euthanize her the next day.
"It was painful to watch your dog in pain,” Galin said.
FedEx had the following statement:
"We extend our deepest sympathies to the family of the pet involved in this incident. We take this matter very seriously and are working directly with those involved to determine the circumstances behind this event. Based on the outcome of our investigation, we will take the appropriate action."
But Napier is unsatisfied.
"They need to say they're going to institute a corporate-wide mandate that drivers cannot throw packages,” she said. “That's what I want to hear."
And they want to prevent drivers from taking shortcuts that could have a lasting impact.
"Our grandchild plays out here,” Galin said. “My mother is out here gardening. I'm here gardening. And the package was so heavy — should it have struck one of us — it would've caused damage. Very, very severe damage."
