When two bulldogs turned up on Morning Dove Drive in Naugatuck, it was clear something was wrong. They weren’t just strays—they looked starved and hurt. On July 1, 2025, local officers found them in such poor shape that it was impossible to ignore.
After getting them to a vet, officers began investigating who they belonged to and eventually identified the owner as 31-year-old Mathew Harris.
When Harris arrived at Naugatuck Animal Control the next day to retrieve the dogs, things quickly escalated. Officials informed him that a home welfare check was necessary based on the bulldogs’ poor health. That visit uncovered something even more disturbing—five additional dogs, all showing signs of neglect.
Instagram | naugatuckpolice | Following an arrest, Harris was charged with two counts of animal cruelty.
The animals were malnourished, had visible skin infections, and bore old wounds that hadn’t been treated. Police secured a search and seizure warrant to ensure there were no other animals inside the home. No further dogs were found, but the damage had already been done.
Harris was arrested on two counts of animal cruelty. While that was serious enough, the investigation revealed an outstanding warrant tied to five previous counts of animal cruelty and one for risk of injury to a minor. Authorities placed Harris under a $50,000 surety bond, and he’s expected to appear at Waterbury Superior Court on July 30.
All seven bulldogs were surrendered to Naugatuck Animal Control. Their condition required more than just basic care—they needed full rehabilitation and new placements with rescues willing to take on the responsibility.
Both dogs had clearly been through a lot—malnourished, injured, and neglected for some time—but at last, they were safe.
Their story has struck a nerve in the community, prompting renewed conversations about how to spot and report animal mistreatment. Whether it’s open sores or dramatic weight loss, signs of suffering in dogs—bulldogs included—often go unnoticed until someone decides to speak up.
Instagram | naugatuckpolice | Rescue groups are focusing on the recovery and rehoming of the seven rescued bulldogs.
Rescue organizations are now working to find homes for the seven dogs, with priority placed on their medical treatment and emotional recovery.
These bulldogs aren’t just victims—they’ve made it through, and now their story is helping drive a larger call for responsibility and reform. What happened here is a reminder of how important it is for communities to stay aware. Situations like this rarely start with headlines—they often begin quietly, with something as ordinary as a couple of stray dogs on the street.
Every report, every rescue, and every check-up matters. In this case, it brought seven dogs out of a harmful environment and shed light on a situation that needed urgent attention.