By Kim Kalunian, WPRO News

A four-month old pit bull puppy was found locked in a porta-potty in Lincoln, according to the Rhode Island Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals (RISPCA).

According to reports, Lincoln Police discovered the puppy on Friday and contacted Animal Control, who later euthanized the dog. The puppy was positive for parvo, a virus with a high mortality rate that causes diarrhea and vomiting.

Dr. E.J. Finocchio, Director of the RISPCA, told WPRO’s Tara Granahan Saturday that he believes instances of animal cruelty are on the rise. In the last few weeks, three dogs were left to starve to death in a Providence apartment and problems continue to arise with the animal sanctuary, Bonniedale Farm.

“It does seem to be happening more and more frequently without question,” said Finocchio.

There is now a search for the owner of the dog that left it to die in the portable toilet.

“You can run but you cannot hide,” Finocchio said.

If the person responsible is located, they would be charged with abandonment of an animal, death resulting – a felony.

Although there are some laws that target animal abusers, Finocchio said the laws on the books are very weak: “They’re all bark and no bite,” he said.

He said people often complain to the RISPCA about animal abuse or neglect they witness, but Finocchio said there is not much the RISPCA can do because the law is not always on their side.