Boston Animal Rescuers Seek Tips After Finding Stray Dog Named Dobby

BOSTON, MA — The Boston Animal Rescue League is searching for the person responsible for mistreating an "amazing dog" named Dobby found in Dorchester's Franklin Park over the summer.

Dobby, who is around one year old, was picked up from the park in mid-August and examined at the Animal Rescue League. Veterinarians determined the puppy was extremely emaciated with mild dental disease and pressure sores on his body, indicating he had been kept in a confirmed space, Animal Rescue League spokesperson Mike Defina told Patch Tuesday.

The Animal Rescue League's Law Enforcement Department is investigating Dobby's "starvation and gross neglect" and is asking the public for any information that could lead to charges and subsequent prosecution for animal cruelty, DeFina said.

After he was rescued, Dobby was transported to Animal Rescue League's Dedham Animal Care and Adoption Center for care, according to DeFina.

"He is currently on a re-feeding plan, which helps him gain weight back slowly and safely, and we are happy to report that he has put on a little weight over the past couple of weeks," Defina said.

Dobby is now up to 40 pounds, meaning he is around 10 pounds away from being back to a healthy weight, according to DeFina.

Now that he's getting stronger, Dobby will be placed in foster care, Defina said. He will likely be in the Animal Rescue League's care for at least another month before he is healthy enough to be put up for adoption.

"I will say that for the staff here at ARL that tends to [Dobby's] day-to-day needs, it has been an emotional experience," DeFina said. "There’s the sadness and anger that someone would treat an animal in this way, but there’s also great comfort that he knows he’s in a safe and comfortable environment. His outgoing personality and friendly disposition is amazing and his strength and resilience is awe-inspiring."

The Animal Rescue League of Boston is a non-profit founded in 1899. According to its website, the organization provides veterinary care, adoption, and rescue services, "while also confronting the root causes of animal cruelty and neglect through innovative community programs, police investigations, and public advocacy."

Animal Rescue League's Law Enforcement is asking that anyone with information pertaining to Dobby's case call (617) 426-9170 x110 or email cruelty@arlboston.org.