Friends of Animals was horrified to read about yet another case of pet abandonment, this time in our home state of Connecticut. A poodle mix, who has since been renamed “Chucky” was found alone bearing heart-wrenching signs of severe neglect in McCutheon Park in Middletown on Halloween.

FoA was able to find solace in learning that Middletown police are now investigating. Desmond’s Army Animal Law Advocates are stepping forward to help in the cause, as well, and are offering a $5,000 reward for anyone who may have information leading to the arrest of Chucky’s abuser.

Officials have estimated that Chucky may have been kept in a crate or a confined space for a long time, and likely not groomed in over a year.

Chucky’s fur was thickly matted—so stiffened that it took officials over two hours to shave him, and so deep that they couldn’t sedate him as the syringe couldn’t penetrate the tangled fur.

He was hardly even able to move his legs.

Pet abandonment is a cruel and inhumane act—and not to mention a crime. In nearly all 50 states, “abandoning” an animal is classified as animal abuse, a criminal offense. In Connecticut, it’s punishable by a fine of up to $1,000, up to a year in prison, or both. We hope this particular crime gets the prosecution it deserves.

Desmond’s Army is an animal law advocacy group based in Connecticut. As a part of their mission, they typically offer monetary rewards for information leading to the positive identification of the offenders responsible for pet abandonment/cruelty cases throughout the state. For a list of active rewards, visit www.desmondsarmy.org/darewards.