Ann Arbor, MI (March 1, 2022) — Charged with abandonment/cruelty to an animal for allegedly leaving his young dog tied to a door with no food or water, Ypsilanti resident George Clark is to be arraigned March 16.

In late August 2021, following reports from concerned citizens, Animal Cruelty Investigators from the Humane Society of Huron Valley (HSHV) found the dog in an apartment that was reportedly in disarray, with garbage, feces and urine scattered about. The approximately 1-year-old dog appeared to be a severely emaciated black lab mix.

Concerned complainants reported Clark declined their offers to feed or care for the dog, saying he wanted to punish the dog for making a mess in his apartment.

In addition to having visible ribs and protruding hip bones, the dog had an open wound near her tail, eye discharge and muscle atrophy. As HSHV Investigators seized her, she tried to eat paper and garbage on her way out.

After nearly two months in HSHV’s care, the dog found a loving home through HSHV’s adoption service.

“We’re happy this had a good ending for the dog,” says Tanya Hilgendorf, HSHV’s CEO. “But it could very easily have gone a different direction if people hadn’t stepped in when they did. Please remember how important your voice is for animals; they rely on our protection and need caring people willing to speak up for them.”

“It’s also important to remember that having a pet is a huge responsibility,” says Hilgendorf. “They offer us so much love and companionship, but it takes time, money, patience, and understanding to humanely care for another life. Please don’t get an animal companion if you are not in a situation that enables you to provide a loving home.”

People in Washtenaw County are reminded to call HSHV’s cruelty hotline at (734) 661-3512 or report online if they suspect animal abuse or neglect.