Reward Raised To $15K For Portsmouth Animal Cruelty Arrest

PORTSMOUTH, RI — The reward in the case of two dogs found severely neglected on Thanksgiving morning is now tripled. The Potter League for Animals is now offering $15,000 for information leading to the arrest and prosecution of the person responsible.

The reward was first announced Tuesday — $5,000 from an anonymous donor. The increase comes from several donors, the Potter League said, who also wish to remain anonymous.

The dogs were rescued from the Gardner Seveney Sports complex 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, police said. Gravy is responding to treatment and will be released to the Potter League when her condition improves.

"While we understand these are unprecedented times with the COVID-19 pandemic, the Potter League for Animals remains available for emergency situations and has programs and resources available to anyone that is in need of assistance with their animals," the organization said Tuesday. "There is never an excuse to abandon an animal."

Anyone with information is urged to reach out to Portsmouth police detectives at 401-683-0994 or the general line at 401-683-0300.