Boulder police arrest woman suspected of neglecting 3-month-old puppy with burns, broken legs

COLORADO -- Boulder police have arrested a woman on suspicion of cruelty to animals after investigators said she failed to get veterinary treatment for a 3-month-old puppy when it suffered broken legs and burns.

Caitlin Lesko, 24, was arrested Thursday on suspicion of aggravated animal cruelty and cruelty to animals with neglect or mistreatment.

According to a news release, police were called to the South Boulder Animal Hospital on Oct. 29 when staff members said a puppy had been brought in that had possibly been neglected.

Police said the 3-month-old French Bulldog, named Bamboo, had third-degree burns on half of its stomach as well as two broken legs.

Lesko said the dog's legs were injured before she purchased it and said the dog suffered burns when she put it too close to the heater to keep it warm.

She told police when she sought treatment for the puppy's broken leg, she could not afford veterinary care and refused treatment. Lesko surrendered the puppy to police Nov. 2.

Lesko is free on bond and due for a filing of charges Dec. 5.

Anyone with information about the case is asked to contact Boulder police animal control supervisor Janee Boswell at  303-441-4385 .

(Daily Camera - Nov 15, 2013)