Portsmouth Dogs Likely Abandoned By Individual: Police

PORTSMOUTH, RI — Portsmouth police believe the two dogs found emaciated Thanksgiving morning were abandoned by a single person, the department said Thursday.

While the investigation is still ongoing, police believe it was a single person or breeder, rather than a shelter or rescue, that left the dogs — nicknamed Turkey and Gravy — at the Gardner Seveney Sports Complex.

"A sincere and heartfelt thank you goes out to the staff at the local emergency vet where the dogs were treated, to staff at the Potter League for continuing to help Gravy along the road to recovery, and to the public for the outpouring of support that has been shown to all involved in this case," police said Thursday.

The dogs were rescued Thanksgiving morning. Portsmouth police received a call around 7 a.m., and found the dogs, both female, severely emaciated and lethargic. Officers nicknamed the darker colored dog Turkey and the lighter one Gravy.

The dogs were rushed to an emergency vet, where Turkey later had to be euthanized due to her condition, police said. Gravy has since been released to the Potter League for Animals to recover.

The Potter League is currently offering a $15,000 reward for information leading to the arrest and prosecution of the person responsible for abandoning the animals. It was initially $5,000, donated by an anonymous person, and was raised after several other donors stepped up to contribute.

Anyone with information about the case is urged to reach out to Portsmouth Police Detective Spurlock at 401-643-0118. Anonymous tips are welcome.