Severely neglected dogs found in Tampa apartment, caregiver arrested: HCSO

article

Pictured: Bernice Smith. Courtesy: Hillsborough County Sheriff’s Office. 

TAMPA, Fla. – A woman was arrested Monday after deputies found two severely neglected dogs in a Tampa apartment. 

Read more St. Petersburg Flock cameras: Man stages weekly protests over privacy concerns

Tampa animal cruelty arrest

What we know:

The Hillsborough County Sheriff’s Office said deputies responded to a call for service just after 1:45 p.m. on July 14 at an apartment located in the 800 block of East 120th Avenue. That’s when deputies found the two dogs in 38-year-old Bernice Smith’s care.

Both dogs were extremely underweight and severely malnourished, according to deputies, who said they could see their ribs, hips and spinal bones protruding. Hillsborough County Animal Services responded to the scene, and removed both dogs from the apartment for a medical evaluation and treatment. 

Veterinary medical evaluation findings

Dig deeper:

Veterinary reports from Hillsborough County Pet Resource Center said both dogs were suffering from emaciated body conditions and numerous medical conditions that were consistent with prolonged neglect, HCSO said. 

Read more How amber lights are saving baby sea turtles in Tampa Bay

Smith was arrested on two counts of aggravated animal cruelty, investigators said. The investigation remains active

Hillsborough County sheriff response

What they’re saying:

“This case is a heartbreaking reminder that animals rely on us to provide them with basic necessities like food, water, shelter, and medical care,” said Hillsborough County Sheriff Chad Chronister. “The suffering these dogs endured was completely preventable. I am grateful to our detectives, Hillsborough County Animal Services, and the Pet Resource Center for their dedication to protecting animals and holding those responsible accountable.”

Read more Latest shark bite comes as Florida’s Volusia County leads state in unprovoked attacks, data shows