Owner Accused of Keeping Emaciated Dog Trapped in Tub and Gasping for Air Must Face Consequences

Target: Kim Foxx, State’s Attorney, Cook County, Illinois

Goal: Ensure appropriate punishment for those allegedly responsible for the egregious mistreatment of a dog found emaciated in a plastic tub.

The story surrounding Betty, a Portuguese water dog, is one that no living being should ever have to endure. Betty was allegedly confined to a plastic storage tub for a month, leading to her severe emaciation and near-death condition. By the time she was discovered by workers on a job to assist the former tenant, her weight had reportedly plummeted from a healthy 40 pounds to a shocking 19 pounds. This incident occurred in the home once rented by pediatric physician Anita Damodaran, who has since been charged with aggravated animal abuse.

As the rescue unfolded, reports indicate that Damodaran was present during the clearance of her home, appearing unconcerned as the workers made the shocking discovery of Betty’s plight. It seems this horrifying scene, where rescuers say the defenseless animal was found gasping for air through a small hole in the lid of the tub, was not due to any mere oversight. Numerous witnesses reported that there would have been clear signs of distress from Betty, suggesting a potentially deliberate act of cruelty that requires serious legal consequences to prevent future occurrences.

The demand is clear: strong legal action must be taken to ensure that those allegedly responsible for this inhumane treatment of Betty are held fully accountable. Animal cruelty of this nature cannot be tolerated. It is the collective responsibility of the legal system to impose appropriate punishment on those who allow or engage in heinous acts against innocent animals. Call for justice for Betty and the countless other animals who suffer in silence.

PETITION LETTER:

Dear Ms. Foxx,

The terrifying plight of Betty the Portuguese water dog whom rescuers say they discovered emaciated and confined to a plastic storage tub for an astounding month, has shocked many in our community and beyond. Under the purported care of her owner, pediatric physician Anita Damodaran, Betty appears to have fallen victim to grave neglect, losing a staggering amount of weight and nearly losing her life before she was rescued. Such allegations of animal cruelty must be met with the seriousness they deserve.

Witness reports suggest that Damodaran, who was present during the clearance of her home, may have been aware of Betty’s horrific conditions. This poor animal seemed to have been all but forgotten—matted, hungry, and gasping for air through a tiny hole in the lid of the tub. Given the physiological and behavioral signs of distress that Betty would have exhibited, it seems implausible that such neglect could be unintentional.

We strongly urge you to seek appropriate punishment for those allegedly responsible for this inexcusable act of animal cruelty. Let justice be served for Betty and all the other animals who deserve a safe and loving environment.

Sincerely,

[Your Name Here]

Photo credit: Peter Janzen