| She did have a collar
on but no license. The dog was scanned for a microchip. No chip was
detected. The dog was transported to the Animal Rescue League (ARL) in Brewster. The dog was again scanned for a
microchip with a negative result. Pictures were taken of the dog’s
condition and arrangements were made for the dog to be seen by a
veterinarian.
At the vet the dog
was checked for overall health and then because of the severe nature
of the matting the decision was made to shave off all of the dog’s
hair. Over six pounds of matted hair was taken off of the dog along
with a three hook fishing lure. The dog was taken back to the ARL
where she was made comfortable while the investigation continue
A
local man was found to be the owner of
“BERNIE” a 9-year-old collie. The owner said she had
escaped from his back yard when neighbors were setting off fireworks.
When questioned about the matted condition of the dog he said that the
dog has a bladder problem and she stinks so he kept he out in the back
yard and was waiting for the weather to be warmer before he got her
groomed. He did not brush the dog (which would have prevented the
matting) because she stank.
The man was charged with Cruelty to Animals under
Massachusetts General Laws Chapter
272: Section 77. Cruelty to animals, for
causing an animal unnecessary suffering.
The ARL continued to care for ”Bernie” applying sun block to her
skin and then brushing her as her coat grew back in. She was also put
on medication for the bladder problem. She went for daily walks and
loved to play with everyone.
After almost 6 months of court proceedings custody of
“Bernie” was taken away from her owner, who also had to pay
restitution to the ARL.
A family, who had been following her progress since they first saw her
at the ARL just after she had been shaved, adopted “Bernie”.
To report
animal cruelty please call the Harwich Animal Control at 508 430-7541
or the Animal Rescue League of Boston in Brewster at 508 255-1030
Click Below To
Visit Their Site
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