A Mohegan Lake woman was arrested last month after allegedly depriving her dog Boomer with adequate food, water and veterinary care for an extended period of time.
May 9, members of the Yorktown Police Department responded to 3825 Eleanor Drive for a report of a “very skinny, malnourished dog.” Members of the SPCA of Westchester in Briarcliff Manor’s Humane Law Enforcement Unit was called, and under the direction of Ernest Lungaro, determined that the Australian cattle dog was in an advanced state of emaciation and dehydration due to extreme neglect. He was taken to The SPCA of Westchester’s Simpson Clinic for emergency medical care and attention.
After a thorough examination, the veterinarian found that the dog’s state of emaciation was consistent with starvation for a prolonged period. The skull, ribs, hip and pelvic bones were visibly prominent. The dog was denied necessary food and water resulting in him being underweight by 20 pounds, which is 50 percent of his body weight, according to the SPCA.
Michelle DiGennaro, 44, was charged May 22 and charged with animal cruelty.
“We are extremely grateful that someone called to report about Boomer, who must have been suffering for months,” said SPCA Executive Director Shannon Laukhuf. “Thanks to the SPCA’s team, Boomer is now receiving the love and medical care he was so cruelly denied.”
If you suspect animal cruelty or neglect, call the local police, or the SPCA of Westchester’s Confidential Animal Cruelty Hotline at 914-941-7797. Visit SPCA914.org for more information.
