Walker County, GA – A Georgia couple is facing animal cruelty charges for trying to euthanize their severely neglected dog, Roxy. According to a news release, 44-year-old Anthony Griggs and 42-year-old Crystal Spring Branch are each facing a felony charge of aggravated animal cruelty for their treatment of Roxy, who was brought to the Animal Medical Center of Fort Oglethorpe to be euthanized earlier this month.

The couple brought Roxy to the veterinary center and asked staff to put her down. But the veterinary team noticed that Roxy was so malnourished that she was unable to walk. She showed other signs of neglect, including overgrown nails and open sores on her body.

The veterinary clinic reached out to Walker County Animal Control with their concerns and officers were dispatched to investigate further. According to the news release:

Animal Control Manager Tyler Bishop says Griggs and Branch told him the dog wouldn’t eat, started losing weight about five-months ago, and that she had not been seen by a veterinarian prior to being taken in to be euthanized. Another animal inside the couple’s home did not display any signs of neglect.

The couple was transported to jail for booking. A felony aggravated cruelty to an animal conviction carries with it a punishment of one to five years in prison, a fine up to $15,000, or a combination of both.

The Animal Medical Center of Fort Oglethorpe is currently trying to raise funds to find a rescue for the dog, named Roxy, who will require around the clock care. Those interested in donating should contact Bobbie Giese at 706-861-0873.

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