WILLET -- A Willet woman is facing animal cruelty charges in the case of several sick puppies.
51-year-old Christyne Klingenberg, of 372 Landers Corners Road, is charged with cruelty to animals, a misdemeanor.
The arrest stems from an investigation into four malnourished puppies. Cortland County SPCA investigators say all the puppies were dehydrated, malnourished and in poor condition. Investigators were called to Klingenberg's home after getting a complaint of puppies in need of care. Klingenberg surrendered the animals back in September, saying she couldn't afford to have them treated by a veterinarian.
The puppies were taken to Cornell Animal Hospital for an initial examination and treatment. Three were adopted after being nursed back to health. The fourth puppy is being fostered and will likely be adopted by its foster family.
Klingenberg was issued four appearance tickets for cruelty to animals for allegedly not supplying necessary veterinary care. If convicted, she could face up to a year in jail and up to a $1,000 fine.
