For Immediate Release
Happy Endings for a Special Dog
On January 11, 2025, a Cane Corso named Moonshine was surrendered to the Columbia-Greene Humane Society/SPCA (CGHS/SPCA). Staff immediately noticed that Moonshine appeared scared, lethargic, and severely emaciated. She was promptly examined by the shelter veterinarian and scored a 1.5 on the Nestlé Purina Body Condition System, which measures healthy body weight in dogs. A score of 1 indicates severe emaciation, while 9 indicates extreme obesity.
Moonshine’s shocking neglect deeply alarmed the CGHS/SPCA staff. There was concern that an underlying medical issue might be responsible for her deteriorated state. Bloodwork was conducted, but the tests revealed no medical explanation for her condition. Tragically, it was determined that Moonshine was simply suffering from malnutrition—she had been starved.
Rehabilitation efforts began immediately. Thanks to her sweet disposition and eagerness to please, Moonshine instantly became a staff favorite. In just two weeks, she gained over ten pounds.
CGHS/SPCA contacted the Columbia County Sheriff’s Office to open an animal cruelty investigation. Deputy Austin Welch was assigned to work with CGHS/SPCA investigators and staff to identify the person responsible for Moonshine’s terrible condition. On February 26, Eric Samperisi Jr. was arrested by Deputy Welch and charged with animal cruelty under Article 26, Section 353 of the Agriculture and Markets Law: “Failure to provide proper sustenance.” If convicted, Mr. Samperisi could face up to one year in jail and a $1,000 fine.
Now renamed Angel, Moonshine was fully rehabilitated at CGHS/SPCA and has since found her new forever home.
After photo L to R: Columbia County Deputy Austin Welch, James Learnihan, Angel (formerly AKA Moonshine), Meryl Learnihan, and CGHS/SPCA President/CEO and Peace Officer Ron Perez.
