Dog Found Tied to Gate at Suffolk County Animal Shelter in 'Critical Condition'

SMITHTOWN, NY — A dog found tied in front of the Smithtown Animal Shelter on Tuesday morning is in "critical condition," according to the Suffolk County SPCA.

The 14-year-old miniature poodle weighing 10 pounds was tied to the front gate of the shelter at 410 E. Main St. with an oxygen tube.

The dog was emaciated and covered in fleas with his skin black with flea dirt, the SPCA said. In addition, his fur was worn away, his teeth were covered in fur from constant biting and his eyes were filled with discharge.

He was taken to a veterinary hospital where he is being treated, and the Suffolk County SPCA has started an investigation.

A surveillance video showed a dark, compact, 4-door car, which is believed to have abandoned the dog at about 7:15 a.m., according to the SPCA.

The dog is currently anemic from the flea infestation and has had multiple baths to remove caked-on flea dirt, according to the shelter. He is on medication for his eye infection, and Doxy for ehrlichia. He will also be receiving dental care for his rotten teeth.

"He is eating and resting comfy," the shelter wrote on its Facebook page. "He is in good spirits."

Anyone with any information is asked to contact the shelter at 631-360-7575. The Suffolk County SPCA is offering a $2,000 reward for information leading to an arrest and conviction of the individual(s) responsible for neglecting the dog.