Authorities in Connecticut have charged a man with severe animal cruelty following the discovery of four dogs at his home that were ill with infections, untreated medical disorders, and living in squalor.
Last week, following months of inquiries and talks with authorities, Stafford resident Neal Basinet was taken into custody. The Connecticut State Police have filed four charges against him for animal cruelty. A bond of $5,000 was posted for his release.
Animal control officer Jennifer Miller from the city gave a horrific description of the scene. A dog named “Athena” had multiple puncture wounds from fights, swelling joints, and abnormalities in her feet that were “consistent with lack of exercise and poor nutrition as a puppy.” According to the authorities, she had a yeast infection in both ears, conjunctivitis, and a double ear infection.
One other canine, a young Neapolitan Mastiff named “Reina,” struggled with gait. A four-inch infection tunnel had been produced in her leg by a severe puncture hole. A serious ear infection, an untreated wound in her jaw, a second infected bite on her neck requiring sutures, and a few other ailments were also plaguing her.
The American Bully known as “Colton” exhibited obvious foot abnormalities and was underweight. He, too, had to undergo parasite therapy for diarrhea and a diagnosis of bilateral ear infections. Neglect during his formative years was also associated with his health problems.
The discovery of “Ruby,” the fourth dog, included a covering of urine and feces as well as puncture marks that were likely caused by a dog battle. Like the others, Ruby had gone without even the most fundamental personal hygiene products for a long time.
Miller claims that Basinet kept canceling their scheduled visits and vet appointments, despite their repeated assurances that the situation will improve. After discovering the four canines in even worse condition on their last visit in June, the cops removed them.
Basinet refused to willingly relinquish the animals although acknowledging that he had his own health problems.
Veterinarians verified that the canines’ pain was due to chronic disregard. According to investigators, there was continuing, preventable brutality, as evidenced by the agonizing diseases, physical deformities, and injuries sustained in fights.
