A New Smyrna Beach couple was arrested Tuesday on felony aggravated animal cruelty charges after police said they found their dog severely neglected during a welfare check.
Shaun Haedrich, 47, and Cathrine Haedrich, 56, were arrested after the New Smyrna Beach Police Department’s Animal Control Unit responded to a report about their dog, an 8-year-old Dogo Argentino named Gemma, in the 2800 block of Brookline Avenue, according to a Facebook post by the department.
A citizen submitted photos showing a dog with visible ribs, hip bones and severe hair loss, police said. During a welfare check, animal control officers said they found Gemma severely emaciated, with visible spine bones, little to no body fat, significant muscle loss and open sores.
Police said an investigation uncovered the Haedrichs had not gotten Gemma veterinary care despite her condition. Gemma was seized by animal control and taken for a forensic and veterinary evaluation, police said, and the department said it will petition the court for custody of the dog.
Shaun and Cathrine Haedrich were each charged with felony aggravated animal cruelty. They’re being held at the Volusia County Jail and have no bond, according to jail records.
