Neglected Dog Found In Brookline Resembles Recent Case, Says ARL

BROOKLINE, MA — A matted terrier type of dog showed up in Brookline late last week and now, Brookline Police and the Animal Rescue League of Boston, who picked up the dog on Goddard Avenue, say it bears a "striking similarity" to a similar dog found in Beverly about the same time. The law enforcement agencies are asking for the public's help if they have any information about what happened to the animal.

The dog, dubbed “Chester,” is an intact male, estimated to be 4 years old, and was found in poor and neglectful condition. As with the case of Angel, the dog found in Beverly, this animal was not microchipped, and his fur was extremely matted and urine-soaked. The dog is also underweight, scoring a 3 out of 9 on the Purina Body Condition Index, and suffering from painful, advanced dental disease, according to the Animal Rescue League.

On Sept. 28, specialists shaved the dog’s entire coat and gave him a thorough veterinary exam at ARL’s Boston Animal Care and Adoption Center. He will continue to be monitored and will be neutered at some point next week.

The Animal Rescue League said he was "agitated upon intake," but said the dog’s demeanor has greatly improved as he is now soliciting attention and accepting treats from staff.

"The amazing thing that we often see with stray or abandoned animals, especially if they’re in rough shape, is that they realize that they’re in a safe place and surrounded by people who care and are there to help," said Mike Defina of the Animal Rescue League, in an email to Patch.

Whether there is a connection between these two animals is currently unknown, however the timeframe, breed and conditions in which they were found are too similar to ignore, according to ARL Law Enforcement officials, who are urging anyone with information regarding either of these animals to come forward.

"We are relying on members of the public to step forward with any useful information to determine where these animals came from. There are no signs of physical abuse with these dogs, it’s strictly neglect. We need to find out where these animals came from on the chance there are other animals like them at the location," said Defina.

Any information can be directed to ARL Law Enforcement (617) 436-9170, cruelty@arlboston.org; or Brookline Animal Control (617) 730-2222.

Photos courtesy Animal Rescue League