By Staff
CASSOPOLIS - They have been at the Cass County Animal Shelter since Jan. 20 waiting to find out their fate.
Thursday, the Fourth District Court judge pronounced that Spencer and Dryfuss are forfeited to the Animal Shelter and cannot go back to their owner.
On Jan. 20, Cass County Animal Control Officers Robin Rowe and Ron Butts investigated a complaint regarding the condition of two dogs at 32017 Crystal Springs Road, Dowagiac.
The investigation led to a search warrant and seizure of two mixed dogs named Spencer and Dryfuss.
At the time the dogs were taken to the shelter, Spencer weighed 33 pounds and had whip and heartworms.
Dryfuss was suffering from tape and whip worms and weighed 22.5 pounds.
As a result of the seizure, Diana LaPorte was charged with two counts of cruelty to animals and seven counts of dog not licensed.
At arraignment, LaPorte pleaded not guilty and waited for a trial date.
On March 9 the veterinarian who conducted the initial exam following their seizure examined Spencer and Dryfuss once again.
Spencer weighed 53.3 pounds and was free of intestinal parasites, but does still suffer from heartworm.
Dryfuss weighed 30.7 pounds and was also free of intestinal parasites.
A trial date in the matter was set for June 2.
In preparation for trial, Spencer and Dryfuss were again weighed on May 4.
Spencer weighed 64.4 pounds and Dryfuss weighed 35.4 pounds.
On May 27 LaPorte entered a plea of guilty to one count of cruelty to animals and one count of dog not licensed.
Sentencing was set for July 14.
At sentencing, LaPorte was placed on 12 months of probation, ordered to pay $500 in fines and costs, pay restitution totaling $1,878.75 and relinquish ownership of Spencer and Dryfuss.
Now the shelter staff is looking for a home for Spencer and Dryfuss.
If you are interested, please contact the Cass County Animal Shelter at 445-3701. Ask for Robin or Judy.