Doctor Reportedly Charged With Aggravated Animal Abuse After Emaciated Dog Found Confined in Plastic Tub for Weeks

In a troubling case that has drawn significant attention in the Lincoln Park community, a dog was allegedly discovered in a state of severe neglect while workers were clearing out a residence previously occupied by a pediatric physician. The animal, a Portuguese water dog named Betty, was reportedly found confined in a yellow plastic tub, described as emaciated and in distress, prompting immediate emergency action from the workers on-site.

The incident is said to have taken place in early March, as Maria Arsenijevich, a professional organizer with the company Clearing Chaos, was assisting in the eviction process of a tenant, identified as Dr. Anita Damodaran, 38. According to Arsenijevich, the residence contained extensive piles of possessions, requiring a seven-day effort to clear. However, the reported discovery of the ailing dog shifted the focus from decluttering to an urgent rescue effort.

According to those present, there was initial disbelief upon encountering the animal. Arsenijevich apparently mistook Betty for a stuffed toy until a co-worker’s frantic reaction made it clear that the dog was alive. Betty had reportedly been confined in the tub for an extended period—potentially as long as a month—raising serious concerns about her care and well-being.

Veterinary assessments later suggested that Betty’s weight had dropped from a healthy 40 pounds to approximately 19 pounds. Emergency responders were called, and upon reaching the veterinary clinic, staff reportedly noted that Betty had suffered significant weight loss and emitted a strong ammonia odor, which they associated with prolonged confinement in unsanitary conditions.

Witnesses described Dr. Damodaran as an individual who appeared cooperative with the workers as she organized her belongings. However, the overall condition of the home and the reported state of Betty have led to questions regarding her awareness of the situation. One animal welfare advocate stated, “There is no way you could have not known,” though authorities have not yet determined the full extent of Damodaran’s knowledge or intent.

After the incident, Damodaran reportedly left Illinois with her two young children, complicating the initial investigation. However, she was later apprehended in December in Florida and extradited back to Chicago to face multiple charges, including allegations of aggravated animal cruelty.

Betty, now fully recovered, has been placed in a foster home and later adopted, demonstrating remarkable resilience despite her reported ordeal. The Hinsdale Humane Society, which oversaw her care, has indicated that despite her allegedly past suffering, Betty has retained her affectionate nature.

As the legal case proceeds, the situation underscores the importance of animal welfare and responsible pet ownership. Many questions remain regarding how such alleged neglect could have occurred and whether it resulted from willful disregard or other circumstances. The community awaits further developments as the court proceedings unfold, with many hoping for accountability and justice—not just for Betty, but for all animals in vulnerable situations.