(June 2016) Massachusetts: Thomas Burke, 42, and Kelly Burke, 43, charged with animal cruelty; dog found soaked in urine will be blind for life

MASSACHUSETTS -- A dog found roaming around the area of Sanford Road and Milk Avenue on June 5 will be permanently blind after major surgery to save her life.

The dog's owners, Thomas Burke, 42, and Kelly Burke, 43, each face a charge of animal cruelty, according to Boston's NBC affiliate WHDH.

Bella, now called "Jersey" by investigators, was soaked in urine and had severely matted fur, police said. She is believed to be an 8-year-old Brussels Griffin.

Police said the dog was in severe condition. On Friday, she underwent surgery that rendered her blind. Veterinarians also removed bladder stones and provided dental treatment. She is in the care of the Animal Rescue League of Boston.

Her treatments cost as much as $4,000.

WHDH reports an anonymous tipster told police the suspects also had three Dachshunds that were in poor health.

Investigators then spoke with Thomas Burke, 42, who allowed detectives to search the home.

The ARL brought the other dogs to a local veterinarian.

Burke and his wife Kelly, 43, were interviewed at the police stationed and admitted to being Bella’s owner.

Thomas Burke turned himself in to police.

Kelly Burke was arrested at her home.

(MassLive.com - June 14, 2016)

VIDEO OF JERSEY

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