The Sarasota County Sheriff's Agricultural Unit arrested a woman, Kelsy Lewis, on suspicion of malnourishment and abandonment of two dogs.
The two dogs in question were a male Boxer mix named "Remy" and a female Pit Bull mix named "Puppy."
An investigation began on July 6th when Animal Service Officers were contacted by a concerned neighbor regarding two dogs confined to a lanai covered in urine and feces with no access to food and water. Remy was covered in fleas and missing patches of fur while Puppy was also missing patches of fur and covered with fleas.
Both dogs were transported to a local veterinarian for evaluation and treatment. The Animal Service Officers felt there was a criminal nature to the case and turned it over to the Agricultural Unit.
Later, on August 3rd, deputies contacted Lewis in Port Charlotte. Lewis told officers she moved out in March, just before her boyfriend was arrested and believed he was taking care of the dogs. Her boyfriend told investigators Lewis said she would be responsible for the animals until he was no longer incarcerated.
Neighbors told officers Lewis was living at the residence until July.
Lewis has been charged with two felony counts of Animal Cruelty - Failure to Act and two misdemeanor counts of Animal Cruelty - Abandonment of Animals.
While the investigation is still ongoing, Remy, the male Boxer, was euthanized due to aggressive behavior. Puppy will soon be available for adoption through Sarasota Animal Services.
