Coventry Woman Charged With Animal Cruelty: Cops

COVENTRY, RI — A Coventry woman was charged with unnecessary cruelty to an animal after a Shih Tzu was found wandering town in "poor condition," police said.

The Shih Tzu, which was "severely underweight and with extensive matting throughout his coat," was spotted wandering in the area of MacArthur Boulevard, the Coventry Police Department said in social media posts.

"The condition of the dog’s coat was so severe that the matted hair had effectively tied his rear legs together," a post said. "He was unable to walk more than a few steps without falling over."

Veterinary staff removed the extensive matting and the "dog is now recovering in the care of our Animal Control Officers," according to a post.

Police then arrested Tracey Poirier, 57, on the unnecessary cruelty to an animal charge, the post said.

The dog is up for adoption and anyone interested in giving him a home was urged to call Animal Control at 401-822-9106.

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