WATERBURY – Officers are investigating after a dog was found tied to a sign in Waterbury while actively in labor, according to the Police Department.

Waterbury Animal Control officers were called to the 100 block of Cherry Street Sunday and took custody of the dog, a pit bull, the department said in a Facebook post Wednesday.

The pit bull now is in the care of BARC Animal Rescue, where she is receiving medical attention and support, police said.

BARC Animal Rescue said the dog was tied to the pole during rainy and cold weather, and the puppies did not survive.

“It appears she’s been in labor for days,” the rescue said Monday. “She’s exhausted, dehydrated, and her body is shutting down.”

The pit bull, named Cassie by the rescue, underwent emergency surgery and is recovering, according to the rescue.

“Cassie had a very successful surgery,” BARC said Tuesday. “There’s truly light back in her eyes and we can tell she’s saying THANK YOU to all of you incredible, compassionate angels who donated to her surgery.”

Anyone with information about this dog, or who may know the owner, is asked to contact the Waterbury Police Department’s Detective Bureau at 203-574-6941. Anonymous tips may be submitted through Crime Stoppers at 203-755-1234.

Cat found with zip tie around stomach captured in Waterbury, animal organization says

WATERBURY – A feral cat was found near Alma Street in Waterbury with a zip tie around its abdomen, according to police.

Helping Outside Animals, a Connecticut-based animal rescue, said the cat had a zip tie tightly around its stomach and was described as “very skinny.”

The organization said on Wednesday afternoon that the cat had been trapped.

The cat also has a companion cat that authorities are also trying to capture, the organization said. The cats were seen together near a home in Waterbury and stayed around garbage cans, according to Helping Outside Animals.

Waterbury police Sgt. Joseph Morais said on Wednesday that animal control officers set humane traps to try to safely capture the feline.

Once both cats are captured, the organization said they will go to an animal rescue.

Officers learned that residents in the area have been feeding the cat, according to Morais.

Pit Bull Puppy’s Heartfelt Concern for His Brother After Surgery Is Why We Love Dogs

Dogs don’t need to be taught how to care for others. They just do it.

If you’ve ever shared your life with one, you know those wholesome check-ins, the gentle nudge, or the way they settle beside you without being asked when you need it the most. They seem to notice shifts in the house long before we do, especially when someone they love isn’t feeling great.

Rollo, a young Pit Bull Puppy, showed that in the sweetest way after his human brother had surgery. He didn’t pace around or seek attention. He stayed right there by his side. For such a small pup, he carried himself with a calm, older-soul energy, like he knew exactly what was needed in that moment.

Take a look at the TikTok from @mamanester on November 8 to see just how sweet he was:

@mamanester My son lost his best friend moose 2 summers ago, we recently adopted this beautiful boy, & after my sons foot surgery this is how he chose to ride the whole way home! Just held onto him and whined and snuggled him the whole ride 😭🙏🏼🥹🥺🐶✨ @Solomon #pitbull #bestfriend #pitbullsoftiktok #adoptdontshop #family ♬ original sound – Wang Saoli

Pit Bulls are known for their devotion, and Rollo really shows that side of the breed. In the car, he pressed himself against his brother and didn’t budge. There was no fidgeting, no distractions, just steady focus and quiet comfort.

Related: Beautiful Blue-Eyed Pit Bull Puppy’s Morning Wake-Up Routine Is Heart-Melting Magic

Knowing a bit about his past makes it even more touching. In an earlier video, Rollo’s mom, Jess, shared that he and his siblings were found abandoned in a box with no one looking out for them. His start could have shaped him very differently, but somehow, he grew into a Puppy full of love and care.

Jess also said that two summers ago, their family had to say goodbye to their beloved dog Moose, and they believe Rollo was meant to find them. It’s hard not to agree when you see him next to his brother on the way home from the hospital.

It’s hard to beat watching a child and a dog become friends. You can tell this connection is already solid when you see Rollo snuggle up and offer comfort without a second thought.

To see how much Rollo has already grown, check out this video from October 2, celebrating his first official week as part of the family.

Kids and Dogs Share Close Bonds

As AZ Tail Wag reports, researchers have found that many children form especially close relationships with their dogs because dogs offer steady, uncomplicated comfort. They show up without judgment or interruption, which helps kids feel grounded and safe.

Studies also suggest that this kind of support can ease stress and nurture empathy as children grow. Many kids place their pets inside their emotional “inner circle,” sharing quiet time and routine moments that naturally build trust.

Rollo and his brother are a perfect example of that connection. Their bond isn’t forced or dramatic. It’s warm, simple, and real. And if this moment is any sign, they have years of sweet memories ahead of them.