California Pitbull Rescue Founder Reunites with Dogs Seized in Las Vegas Abuse Case

Mark Rulon recovers two dogs from a Nevada rescue under investigation for animal cruelty.

Apr. 9, 2026 at 12:08am

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An extreme close-up photograph of a worn dog collar and tag against a pitch-black background, lit by a harsh, direct camera flash, conceptually illustrating the neglect and mistreatment of rescue animals.The seized dogs' physical condition exposed the disturbing reality of the abuse they endured at the hands of their caretakers.Las Vegas Today

Mark Rulon, the founder of a Southern California pitbull rescue, has been reunited with two dogs that were seized from a Nevada-based rescue organization under investigation for animal abuse. Police arrested two employees of Working Dogs of Nevada after an investigation uncovered disturbing training methods, including an incident where a dog named Dottie was allegedly swung around violently by a trainer.

Why it matters

The case highlights the importance of thorough vetting and oversight of animal rescue organizations to ensure the welfare of the animals in their care. It also underscores the need for stronger regulations and enforcement to protect vulnerable rescue animals from abuse.

The details

According to the arrest report, police seized 35 dogs from Working Dogs of Nevada last week and arrested two employees, John Johnstone and Tabitha Berube, on animal abuse charges. The report alleges that Johnstone was seen swinging a dog named Dottie around four times, at one point causing the dog to go airborne. Berube was present and witnessed the incident. Rulon, who had entrusted Working Dogs of Nevada to train and rehome some of his rescue dogs, was shocked to find Dottie in such poor condition when he went to retrieve her.

  • In January 2026, Rulon dropped off dogs at Working Dogs of Nevada for training and rehoming.
  • On April 4, 2026, Metro police seized 35 dogs from Working Dogs of Nevada and arrested two employees for animal abuse.
  • On April 9, 2026, Rulon reunited with his dogs Dottie and Rusty after they were seized from Working Dogs of Nevada.

The players

Mark Rulon

The founder of Southern California Pitbull Rescue, who entrusted Working Dogs of Nevada to train and rehome some of his rescue dogs.

John Johnstone

An employee of Working Dogs of Nevada who was arrested on animal abuse charges for allegedly swinging a dog named Dottie around violently.

Tabitha Berube

An employee of Working Dogs of Nevada who was arrested on animal abuse charges for allegedly witnessing the abuse of the dog named Dottie.

Keriggan Toms

An individual who provided police with video evidence of another dog being abused at Working Dogs of Nevada, helping with the investigation.

The Animal Foundation

The organization that received the 35 dogs seized from Working Dogs of Nevada.

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What they’re saying

“He could have snapped her neck.”

— Mark Rulon, Founder, Southern California Pitbull Rescue

“That's not training. That's flat out abuse. He could have killed her swinging her around like he did, and then I wouldn't have my Dottie here.”

— Mark Rulon, Founder, Southern California Pitbull Rescue

“I had to do it for the dogs. I was there to get the dogs out.”

— Keriggan Toms

What’s next

Both John Johnstone and Tabitha Berube have posted bond and are scheduled to appear in court again later this month to face the animal abuse charges.

The takeaway

This case highlights the critical need for thorough vetting and oversight of animal rescue organizations to ensure the safety and well-being of vulnerable rescue animals. It also underscores the importance of stronger regulations and enforcement to protect rescue animals from abuse and neglect.