Update at 10:54 p.m., April 29: The Vermont State Police were able to identify the owner of the deceased dog located in Alta Gardens MHP in the Town of Pownal. After an extensive investigation police found the circumstances of the case not criminal. 

No charges will be filed.

POWNAL, Vt. — Vermont State Police are investigating a case of animal cruelty after finding the body of an emaciated dog.

Troopers were at Alta Gardens Mobile Home Park at about 3 p.m. on Monday for an unrelated incident when a park resident approached them about finding the dog.

The resident told the troopers that a dog's body had been dumped behind one of the trailers. It had been placed in a trash bag and appeared to be hidden in a culvert.

Upon further investigation, the dog was found to be extremely emaciated and showed significant signs of neglect. The dog was a 3- to 5-year-old male pitbull, cream in color. He was found wearing a distinguishable collar and missing his right eye.  

State police are pursuing leads and anyone with information is encouraged to contact the Shaftsbury Barracks at 802-442-5421. Information can also be submitted anonymously at www.vtips.info or by texting "CRIMES" (274637) to keyword "VTIPS."