Three dog individuals from Hazlehurst have been charged with two counts each of aggravated cruelty to animals after neighbors discovered two dogs in very poor health. One of the dogs has since died as a result of the alleged neglect.
The incident took place on March 29. When deputies arrived on the scene to assist animal advocates, they found two severely malnourished and mangy dogs, according to a press release posted by the Jeff Davis County Sheriff’s Office. Neighbors found the dogs after they wandered up on their front porch shaking uncontrollably. Deputies assisted the volunteers in getting the dogs to the veterinary clinic as well as locating the owners.
Once at the clinic and assessed, one of the dogs had a severe skin infection known as sarcoptic mange and open infected wounds covered by rotten flesh. Due to the mange and skin infection, the dog had very little fur left on his body. Sadly, the male dog did not survive due to his condition.
The second dog was taken to a foster home for the night and later transported to the vet as she was in better condition than the male. She also had sarcoptic mange. Volunteers are treating her condition and she is recovering.
Deputies located the owners of the dogs. They admitted to being aware of their pets’ conditions and failed to get them the necessary attention and treatment.
As a result, Beth Stuckey, Elise Floyd, and Derek Caine, all of Hazlehurst, have been charged with two counts of aggravated animal cruelty.
The JDSO reminds everyone that if you have any pets inside or out, please maintain proper conditions for your animals. Failure to do so can result in similar charges.
If you have any questions or want information on the animal rescue volunteers, please contact the sheriff’s office. Pets are friends and family.