RALEIGH COUNTY, WV (LOOTPRESS) – A heartbreaking case of animal neglect is under investigation after a severely malnourished dog was rescued from a property in Raleigh County on February 18, 2025.
Raleigh County Animal Control responded to a tip about a pit mix dog confined in an outdoor enclosure without access to food or water. The complainant reported the dog was so weak it could barely stand.
When Animal Control officers arrived, they found the dog in critical condition — its ribs and hip bones clearly visible, with little to no muscle mass. The dog was unable to lift its head or stand and cried out in pain when approached. Officers carried the frail animal, estimated at just 20 pounds, to a patrol vehicle and transported it to SHARP Animal Rescue in Coal City.
At SHARP, director Taunya Williams conducted an initial assessment and recorded the dog’s weight at 23.4 pounds. “The dog was emaciated and clearly suffering from prolonged starvation,” Williams said.
The investigation led officers to the last known residents of the property, Thomas and Samantha Herald, who had recently moved just two houses away. Attempts to contact the couple were unsuccessful.
Veterinarian Dr. Emily Woodward later evaluated the dog and determined it should weigh between 45–50 pounds for its age and breed. Tests revealed no medical condition that could explain the weight loss. She classified the dog as a 2 out of 9 on the body condition scale — a clear case of severe malnutrition and starvation.
The suspect, Thomas Herald, was arrested and charged with animal cruelty.
