Putnam SPCA Charges Kent Woman With Animal Neglect

KENT, NY — A Kent resident was accused of animal neglect after an elderly Maltese was found loose on Route 52 Dec. 6.

The Putnam County SPCA Law Enforcement Division received a phone call from the Town of Kent Dog Control Officer regarding a severely neglected older male, Maltese that was found loose by a good Samaritan on Route 52 in Kent. The dog, named Buster, was transported to the Carmel Animal Hospital and was found to have extremely long nails curling into the pads and other digits, matted dirty hair with putrid odor, large clumps of hair missing, and severe dental disease.

The PCSPCA investigated and found the owner of the dog, Jennifer Parrish.

After interviewing Parrish at the Kent Police Department, SPCA officers placed her under arrest for the crime of Failure to provide sustenance, extreme neglect, a Class A misdemeanor in the NYS Agriculture & Markets Law with a penalty of up to 1 year in prison, up to $1,000 fine or a combination of both.

The dog has received medical treatment and is in the custody of the Putnam County SPCA.

"I would like to thank the Good Samaritan, Dog Control Officer Mary Madsen, Carmel Animal Hospital and the Town of Kent Police Department for their timely assistance in this matter," said Putnam County SPCA Chief Ken Ross. "Owners of animals need to understand that constant attention to the condition and welfare of their pet is extremely important. By not addressing it immediately, will allow the condition to worsen and cause unjustifiable pain to the animal and is a crime."

Putnam County SPCA 24 Hour Hotline – 845-520-6915