A starved and seriously underweight one-year-old female Shih Tzu, named Dora, has gained nearly 3 pounds—a 40% increase in body weight—since being rescued by Humane Law Enforcement agents of the ASPCA late last year.
On December 17, agents responded to reports of an emaciated, neglected canine living on Albemarle Road in Brooklyn, New York. When agents arrived at the premises what they found was a Shih Tzu that was weak, dehydrated, and skeletal. The pup’s matted fur was further evidence that she had been neglected by her owner, Nicole Dennis.
Dora was taken to Bergh Memorial Animal Hospital for treatment. Veterinarians there placed the pooch on intravenous fluids and shaved off her entire coat. Her fur’s excessive matting appeared to be causing Dora pain.
Dennis, 32, was arrested and charged with one count of misdemeanor animal cruelty. If convicted, she faces up to one year in jail and/or a $1,000 fine. Dennis is due to appear in Brooklyn Criminal Court on March 5.
Of Dora’s case, Howard Lawrence, senior director of operations for the ASPCA’s Humane Law Enforcement department, is on record as saying:
You don’t have to hit, beat or kick an animal to be cruel to him or her. Animal cruelty also includes situations where an owner or caretaker fails to provide an animal with necessary food, water, shelter or veterinary care and the animal is harmed as a result.
Since 2010, 83% of the ASPCA’s arrests have involved some form of animal neglect.
Dora, meanwhile, is recovering nicely. Hospital personnel hope she will be ready to be made available for adoption in the near-future.
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