An Ypsilanti man is expected to be arraigned on animal cruelty charges Wednesday, March 16, for allegedly leaving his dog tied to a door with no food or water in August 2021.
George Clark was charged with abandonment/cruelty to an animal after Animal Cruelty Investigators from the Humane Society of Huron Valley reportedly found the dog in an apartment with feces, urine, and garbage following reports from concerned citizens.
Complaintants reported that Clark denied their offers to feed or take care of the dog, and that the dog was being punished for making a mess.
HSHV seized the dog, an approximately 1-year-old black lab mix. The dog was reported to have visible ribs, protruding hip bones, an open wound near its tail, eye discharge, and muscular atrophy, according to HSHV.
After two months in HSHV’s care, the dog was adopted.
“We’re happy this had a good ending for the dog,” Tanya Hilgendorf, HSHV’s CEO, said in a written statement. “But it could very easily have gone a different direction if people hadn’t stepped in when they did. Please remember how important your voice is for animals; they rely on our protection and need caring people willing to speak up for them.”
Washtenaw County residents can report suspected animal cruelty or neglect to HSHV’s hotline at 734-661-3512 or by reporting it online.
“It’s also important to remember that having a pet is a huge responsibility,” Hilgendorf said. “They offer us so much love and companionship, but it takes time, money, patience, and understanding to humanely care for another life. Please don’t get an animal companion if you are not in a situation that enables you to provide a loving home.”
