Authorities on Long Island are investigating after a dog reported missing more than a year ago was found abandoned with skin lesions and trauma outside a Long Island veterinary clinic.
The poodle-mix dog named Nino was suffering from open wounds and was covered in bloody bandages when it was found on a small bed outside the entryway to the clinic on Tuesday morning.
Nassau County prosecutors say they have acquired a video depicting someone leaving the animal there. It shows two people walking past the clinic, then one of the individuals returns and leaves the dog near a door.
Nino was identified because of a microchip implant. The dog's owner, who authorities say had received Nino from a family member in 2000, had reported it missing from her front yard.
The dog is expected to be reunited with its owner after it recovers.
Madeline Singas, the acting district attorney for Nassau County, said she thinks the case highlights the need for stronger animal cruelty laws.
"While I am heartened that this dog will be return to a loving home, this case marks yet another example of why we need to strengthen animal cruelty laws in New York State," she said.
