Puppies Stolen From Dog Abandoned On Route 9

FRAMINGHAM, MA — A pit bull that recently gave birth was abandoned on the side of Route 9 this week and someone took all its puppies, officials said. The Animal Rescue League (ARL) of Boston is asking for the public's help in finding who left the mama pup and finding her litter.

The ARL said the dog, named Maizel, is 3-years-old and not microchipped. "Information on where along Route 9 she was found was vague, and unfortunately, despite a thorough search, her puppies have not been located," the organization said in a statement. ARL law enforcement think whoever abandoned the dog probably kept her puppies.

The dog was found on the highway between Framingham and Worcester.

When Maizel was found she was emaciated and severely dehydrated, indicating she had been neglected for some time, the ARL said. The organization is working with Framingham authorities to find Maizel's puppies and the person who abandoned her.

During her time with the ARL of Boston Maizel has gained some weight and proven to be extremely friendly, making great progress, the organization said. The ARL hopes to make her available for adoption in the next week.

Abandoning an animal is a felony crime in Massachusetts, punishable by up to 7 years in prison and a $5,000 fine. Anyone with information is asked to contact ARL Law Enforcement at 617-426-9170, or Framingham Animal Control at 508-532-5870.