BC

Cruelty charges have now been laid against the owner of a small dog found, barely alive, wandering the streets of Victoria.

Tiny, the 10-year-old Shih Tzu, was picked up in August with fur so matted and filthy that open, maggot-infested abscesses had developed on the dog's skin.

Tiny also had extensive dental disease and was so severely dehydrated that the dog's internal organs were affected.

Despite three months of veterinary care, Tiny had to be euthanized.

Victoria residents Douglas and Enza Pattison have now been charged with animal cruelty.

If convicted, the couple could face up to five years in prison, fines of up to 75-thousand dollars and a ban on owning future pets.