Phoenix Police are investigating after four small dogs were found sick and malnourished on an abandoned property on Tuesday morning.
The Arizona Humane Society's Emergency Animal Medical Technicians helped seize four Chihuahuas from the property near 19th Avenue and Indian School Road.
One of the dogs was found in a broken-down chicken coop outside. Humane society officials say the dog had no food or water, and was malnourished and extremely ill.
One of the responding animal technicians reportedly said she had "never seen such a small and innocent dog suffer in such horrible agony."
Veterinarians treated the dog at their trauma hospital, but the dog, believed to be around 4 years old, had a high fever, showed signs of neurological damage, had a hard time breathing, and could barely stand or hold his head up.
Vets believed the dog was suffering from Distemper, a deadly virus, and euthanized him.
Three others dogs were found inside a building on the property and were found to be deprived of food and water.
Tests are still pending to determine whether the other dogs also had Distemper. They are currently in intensive care and isolated from other dogs.
Police arrested the dogs' owner on charges of animal cruelty and neglect. He was identified as 42-year-old Adrian Montano.
Police said Montano admitted to putting the dogs in a chicken coop and had forgotten to feed them or give them water.
The case remains under investigation.
