Malnourished Coventry dog Hanz rescued and now adopted

COVENTRY, R.I. — A severely malnourished German Shepherd rescued in Coventry has fully recovered and found a loving forever home, officials said.

Coventry Animal Control officers responded to a welfare check on December 19 at a home on Circlewood Drive. There, they found a male German Shepherd named Hanz confined to a sunroom. The dog was emaciated, with ribs, hips, and spine clearly visible, and he had no access to food or water.

Hanz was taken immediately to a local animal hospital. Because of the severity of his condition, he was later transferred to an emergency veterinary facility. After receiving intensive care, he recovered under the supervision of Coventry Animal Control.

On January 14, 25-year-old Caitlyn Pelton of Coventry was arraigned in Kent County District Court. She faces charges including unnecessary cruelty to an animal, failure to provide adequate food and water, and failure to maintain a rabies vaccination. Pelton was released on $1,000 personal recognizance and ordered not to possess any animals. Her next court date is scheduled for February 4.

Officials say Hanz’s health has improved dramatically, and he has now been adopted by a caring family. Coventry Animal Control also thanked the community for donations that helped cover his medical care.