Police in Terre Haute, Indiana, allege that on Tuesday, August 31st, Judy Walters, 59, threw the body of her dead dog, a Terrier mix named Lacy, into a dumpster, according to CBS affiliate WTHITV.com.
Because Lacy's collar was too large for her, indicating her original size, authorities suspect that the three-year-old dog died from starvation.
"We have had calls like this in the past, but this is just horrible," Terre Haute Code Enforcement officer Tim Manley told the news source.
Walters claims that she didn't starve her dog: she told the news source that she was under the impression that Lacy was sleeping. However, officials say that the photos of the dog's collar, and her undernourished appearance, indicate a much different story. They have charged Walters with animal cruelty.
The American Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals recommends that anyone who is no longer able to care for their pet should seek assistance from a shelter. The facility can offer the appropriate level of care for pets if their owners are unable to do so.
If individuals do observe a pet who doesn't seem to be getting enough to eat or drink, it is important to talk to the owner about proper pet care or contact the authorities.
Police in Terre Haute, Indiana, allege that on Tuesday, August 31st, Judy Walters, 59, threw the body of her dead dog, a Terrier mix named Lacy, into a dumpster, according to CBS affiliate WTHITV.com.