Dog Found Tied To Tree Euthanized

HYDE PARK, NY — The dog that was tied up on I-84 had to be euthanized a couple of weeks after he was found. Lynne Meloccaro, the executive director of the Dutchess County SPCA, said that Pesci, as he was named after being rescued, began having trouble breathing and was humanely euthanized Wednesday.

Melocarro said the dog's condition deteriorated despite the best efforts of the veterinarians.

"They believe he may have had underlying issues to which the trauma of his neck injuries contributed," she said.

The injuries to his trachea and esophagus were apparently caused by his pulling on a choke collar in his attempts to free himself from the tree.

Doctors worked on him all day, but could not get his airways to open or get his oxygen levels high enough, Meloccaro said.

When it became clear that Pesci would never breathe again on his own, the decision was made to end his suffering, she said.

"He was a very sweet soul and everyone who worked to save him is devastated by this outcome," Meloccaro said.

She said that because of the outpouring of donations, Pesci got the best medical help available.

"He did not die tied to a tree, but spent his final days surrounded by love, attention and the best possible care," Meloccaro said, "and in the end, died without pain."

Pesci was found by a state Department of Transportation crew around 10:30 a.m. July 24 as they were getting ready to mow near mile marker 50 on I-84 in East Fishkill.

The dog was found tied to tree. There were also signs of prior neglect.

The New York State Humane Association, which is located in Kingston, offered a $1,000 reward for any information leading to the arrest and conviction of the person or persons responsible for leaving the dog on the highway.

Anyone with information regarding the possible history of the dog or its owners is asked to call the New York State Police at SP East Fishkill at 845-677-7300. Reference case No. 9050766.

Find and “Like” Hudson Valley Patches' Facebook Pages.