Putnam SPCA rescues dog; owner charged with cruelty

NEW YORK -- A 5-year-old female Pomeranian found in “a severe state of neglect” is being treated for a range of skin and infestation issues and police have charged her owner with animal cruelty.

Bridget A. Joyce, 67, of Kent faces the misdemeanor charge when she appears in Kent Town Court on Feb. 20. She could not be reached for comment.

The Putnam County Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals responded to a call for assistance from a Town of Kent dog control officer on Sunday.

Taffy, a 5-year-old Pomeranian, was rescued.

A 5-year-old female Pomeranian found in “a severe state of neglect” is being treated for a range of skin and infestation issues and police have charged her owner with animal cruelty.

Bridget A. Joyce, 67, of Kent faces the misdemeanor charge when she appears in Kent Town Court on Feb. 20. She could not be reached for comment.

The Putnam County Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals responded to a call for assistance from a Town of Kent dog control officer on Sunday.

The dog’s skin was thickened and had become scaly, oily and crusty. Deep fissures were evident. Taffy also had severe dental disease.

“A lot of times we don’t associate animal cruelty with neglect but under New York state law it is just that,” said Ross. “You have a responsibility when you own an animal. There is no ‘off’ switch — you can’t just say you aren’t going to take care of it anymore.”

(Lohud.com - Feb 1, 2013)