A Long Island man has been arrested, accused of neglecting his pet Shih Tzu so badly for over six months that the dog was found malnourished with matted fur and rotting teeth that were falling out, authorities say.
Local animal control officials in Syosset responded to a report of an apparently stray 10-year-old Shih Tzu outside the man's home on May 27 and impounded the dog for examination and care, according to the Nassau District Attorney's office.
The dog had matted hair covered in feces and urine, severely rotting gums and teeth, and nails so long and curled they cut into the dog's paws, officials said.
It was clear the dog, named Stanley, had suffered severe neglect and deprived of nutrition, hydration, basic hygienic and dental care, and veterinary care for at least six months, veterinarians determined.
The dog's 30-year-old owner visited the local shelter later that day and identified himself.
He surrendered to the D.A.'s animal crimes unit to be arrested Wednesday, and was arraigned on a charge of misdemeanor failure to provide proper sustenance, according to prosecutors. He's due back in court July 23.
