West Bridgewater police are set to summon a 27-year-old Taunton man to face animal cruelty charges after a traffic stop revealed a severely undernourished dog in his car. As reported by John Guilfoil Public Relations, the incident occurred on Nov. 24 when Officer Alexandra Maloney stopped the vehicle for running a red light.
The officer discovered the dog, a puppy named Sprout, who appeared significantly underweight. The police department later said that Sprout received medical care at Westbridge Veterinary Referral Hospital. According to a statement obtained by Boston 25 News, Sprout was "severely emaciated" and bloodwork revealed a "dangerously low" hematocrit level. These conditions highlighted the extent of neglect endured by the animal.
Sprout is now recovering at the Animal Protection Center of Southeastern Massachusetts (APCSM), where the staff works to help her gain weight safely. As the shelter shared on their Facebook page, "Despite what she’s been through, she is incredibly sweet and just wants affection and closeness," a sentiment echoed by the West Bridgewater police in their acknowledgement of APCSM's and Westbridge Veterinary Referral Hospital's efforts to ensure Sprout receives proper care, as per boston.com.
The man accused of neglecting Sprout has yet to be formally charged and therefore, remains unidentified. However, boston.com reports that the dog's owner allegedly confessed he had not provided food for Sprout due to financial constraints and lack of time. APCSM has been actively raising funds to cover Sprout's ongoing medical expenses, and updates on her condition indicate she will eventually be ready for adoption, though not immediately as she continues to recover. The shelter expressed thanks for the public support, stating on Facebook, "Thank you so much to everyone who helps us fight for animals like her. She has a long road ahead, but she isn’t walking it alone anymore."
