Abused Shar-Pei recuperating
YONKERS – The Humane Law Enforcement Unit of the SPCA of Westchester has arrested a Yonkers man on an animal cruelty charge.
The arrest, in conjunction with the Yonkers Police, charged Paul Vega, 35, with not providing adequate food, water or veterinary care for an extended period of time to his Shar Pei-mix dog.
Vega was evicted from his last known address at 70 Morningside Avenue in Yonkers.
On August 23, the Yonkers Animal Shelter went to that address due to an eviction involving a dog. The same animal was in an advanced state of emaciation, dehydration, and extreme neglect. She was taken to Central Animal Hospital for immediate medical attention.
After a thorough examination, the veterinarian found the dog’s state of emaciation was consistent with starvation for a prolonged period of time. Every rib and bone in her body was visible, her muscles and hind limbs had begun to atrophy from disuse and she had not been groomed in a long time.
“We are grateful to citizens who report these incidents as quickly as possible,” said Shannon Laukhuf, executive director of the SPCA. “Time is of the essence in animal abuse cases, and our officers are ready to respond.”
