DENVER — The Denver Animal Shelter (DAS) has seen an increase in severely emaciated dogs this year brought through its doors.

"It is a startling, unsettling sight that might stop many of us in our tracks," DAS said.

By the beginning of June, DAS said it had investigated 83 cases of neglect in dogs and cats under its care. That's about 30% higher than the same period in 2024, according to DAS intake data, when the shelter had investigated 62 cases of neglect.

DAS has seen animals so weak they can barely stand, with hip bones protruding through their fur and ribs sharply visible from lack of proper nutrition and care.

Starving an animal is a crime in Denver, punishable by up to 300 days in jail and $999 in fines, according to DAS.

Anyone who encounters an emaciated animal is asked to ca

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