Possible dog drowning in Rye is failed burial

RYE – The dead dog found on the shore of Long Island Sound was not an abused animal but a well-loved pet whose burial at sea went awry, authorities said Thursday evening.

A passer-by found the dog, a Leonburger, Wednesday night, wrapped in plastic and nylon cord at the water's edge. Fearing an intentional drowning, the Rye police contacted the SPCA of Westchester. With the help of a microchip embedded in the dog, the SPCA tracked down the dog's veterinarian and owner.

"I didn't know they were going to bury him at sea. At worst, it was bad judgment," said Dr. Carol Lockhart, a Mamaroneck veterinarian who euthanized the dog on Aug. 18. "They took very good care of him."

She said dead pets are usually cremated but this family asked to handle his final disposition, which included a boat ride.

The dog weighed 153 pounds, was at least 10 years old and loved the water, according to those involved. He had been battling bone cancer for several months, Lockhart said.

Ernest Lungaro, director of the Humane Law Enforcement Unit of the SPCA, said the matter was no longer under investigation.