German Shepherd rescued in Coventry, owner charged with animal cruelty

COVENTRY, R.I. — Coventry police say a severely malnourished German Shepherd has been rescued and is now on the road to recovery following an animal cruelty investigation in town.

According to authorities, Coventry Animal Control officers responded to a home on Circlewood Drive on December 19 for a welfare check and discovered a male German Shepherd named Hanz confined to a sunroom. Officers reported the dog was visibly emaciated, with ribs, hips, and spine protruding, and showed no signs of access to food or water.

Hanz was immediately taken into custody and rushed to a local animal hospital before being transferred to an emergency veterinary facility due to the severity of his condition. He remained under medical care overnight and has since been rehabilitating under the supervision of Coventry Animal Control.

On Wednesday, January 14, police announced that 25-year-old Caitlyn Pelton of Coventry was arraigned in Kent County District Court on multiple charges, including unnecessary cruelty to an animal, failure to provide adequate food or water, and failure to maintain required rabies vaccination. She 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 condition has significantly improved, and he is now available for adoption. Coventry Animal Control is also accepting donations to help cover his medical expenses.

Anyone interested in adopting or donating is encouraged to contact Coventry Animal Control directly.

Coventry woman arrested on animal cruelty, Hanz.