WATERTOWN, New York (WWNY) – A Watertown couple faces animal cruelty charges after their dog was found emaciated and unable to stand.
City police arrested 37-year-old Benjamin Tillman and 34-year-old Elizabeth Pettit of 309 Winslow Street last Friday.
According to police, the two failed to seek veterinary care for a 4-year-old German Shepherd, which had shown prolonged signs of sickness, including diarrhea for about a month.
Court documents said, “The dog appeared severely emaciated as its hip bones were protruding. Its spine and ribs could be visible through its skin. A lack of muscle mass resulted in the dog’s hind legs (being) unable to support themselves.”
It also said the dog had fur loss on its back.
Police said animal control took custody of the German Shepherd, but didn’t know the dog’s current health status.
Tillman and Pettit were ordered to appear in city court on March 30 and released.
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