NAUGATUCK — A 31-year-old man was arrested on animal cruelty charges after police found seven malnourished dogs with wounds and skin infections at his home.
Matthew Harris was charged with two counts of animal cruelty and released on $50,000 surety bond following his arrest July 2.
The case began July 1 when animal control officers responded to Morning Dove Road for two roaming bulldogs that were emaciated and had multiple wounds.
The dogs were taken to a veterinarian for treatment.
Harris went to Naugatuck Animal Control the next day to retrieve the two dogs.
Given their condition, officers told Harris they needed to conduct a welfare check at his home.
Police found five additional dogs that were also malnourished and had skin infections and old wounds.
The Naugatuck Police Detective Bureau obtained a search warrant for Harris’ home to ensure no other dogs were present.
No additional animals were found.
Harris has an outstanding arrest warrant for five additional counts of animal cruelty and one count of risk of injury to a minor stemming from the search.
He is scheduled to appear in Waterbury Superior Court at 400 Grand Street on July 30 at 9 a.m.
All seven dogs were surrendered to Naugatuck Animal Control and need rescue placement for rehabilitation and treatment.
