Starving and dehydrated dog recovering, as Lexington caregiver is arrested for alleged neglect

LEXINGTON (25News Now) - Several concerned neighbors in the McLean County City of Lexington may have saved the life of a neglected two-year-old boxer named Winston, while a man who police say should have been caring for the dog has been arrested.

Winston is now on the road to recovery, having been found Tuesday weighing just 29 pounds, according to Lexington Police and Winston’s new caregivers at Ruby’s Rescue and Retreat in McLean.

Winston was taken from the Lexington home on Tuesday, and police arrested Brennan Gunville, 32, for cruel treatment to an animal, which is a misdemeanor. Formal charges have yet to be filed by the McLean County State’s Attorney’s Office.

Photos of Winston, posted on social media, show the dog’s bones bulging through his skin. Ruby’s owner Jean Ann Hert says Winston was dehydrated, had open sores on his back hips, had overgrown and broken nails. He is weak and his gums are pale, Hert also said.

“Not only was this poor dog locked in a home, he was locked in a crate,” said Hert.

“He was forced to go without food or water and lay in his own urine and feces,” she added.

A day later, another of Ruby’s staffers said Winston “has hope in his eyes and looks amazing.”

“Winston is getting lots of love,” she added.

Even Lexington’s mayor is speaking out about Winston’s plight, saying he’s embarrassed and angry that “someone in our community could be so cruel and heartless.”

Mayor Spencer Johansen said he’s taken calls from people wishing to help pay for Winston’s care. He said donations can be sent to Ruby’s and Eastland Companion Animal Hospital in Bloomington, which is providing Winston’s medical care. Donations are also being accepted at Lexington City Hall.

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