Two Arrested After Dogs Found Covered In Matted Fur, Feces: Sheriff

NEWBURGH, NY — Three Shih Tzus were seized from a local home after sheriffs noticed they had severely matted fur and were covered in feces, according to the Orange County Sheriff’s Office.

The two owners of the dogs, William Recinos, 51, and Eva Tounas, 38, of Newburgh, face three counts of overdriving, torturing, and injuring animals; and failure to provide proper sustenance.

Two deputies discovered the condition of the dogs when they went to the home on May 15 for an eviction, officials said.

Once inside the residence, they noticed the dogs had an abnormal gait and appeared to be in distress, officials said, in a Facebook post on Monday. Upon closer inspection, the deputies saw the matted fur and feces, officials said.

The Newburgh Animal Control Officer was summoned to the scene, took custody of the dogs and brought them to the Newburgh Veterinary Hospital for evaluation. The three dogs had to be shaved to remove the matting, according to the hospital.

Sheriff Paul Arteta said in the announcement Monday, "There is no reason for any animal to be neglected. Our pets depend on us for their well-being. It is your responsibility as a pet owner to care for them. Bathe them. Feed them. Groom them. And love them. If you cannot care for your animals, please find a new home for them. There are plenty of people who are willing to do it.”