Emaciated German Shepherd Rescued, Owner Arrested: Coventry Cops

COVENTRY, RI — Animal control officers rescued an emaciated German shepherd from a Coventry home in December, police said.

Nearly three weeks after animal control officers took custody of Hanz the German shepherd, his owner, Caitlyn Pelton, 25, was charged with unnecessary cruelty to an animal, the Coventry Police Department said in a media release.

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Pelton appeared in court Wednesday for her arraignment, pleaded not guilty, was referred to the public defender and released in her own recognizance.

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The animal control officers rescued Hanz after they were sent to a home on Circlewood Drive Dec. 19 to conduct a well-being check and found him "confined to a sunroom," according to the media release.

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"The dog was clearly emaciated with his ribs, hips, and spine visible through the skin," the release said. "There were no indications that the dog had access to any food or water."

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With the improvement in his health, Hanz is now available for adoption. Coventry Animal Control is also accepting donations for his medical care.

Anyone interested in adopting Hanz or donating for his care can call Coventry Animal Control at 401-822-9106.

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