Severely Emaciated Dog Continues To Improve, Suspect's Mom Going To Trial

PITTSBURGH (KDKA) -- A woman charged in connection with a dog abuse case will be going to trial.

Tia Matthews is charged with terroristic threats and intimidating a witness.

Officials say she allegedly sent threatening text messages to a witness in the case multiple times.

On Thursday in court, a charge of retaliation against a witness was dismissed against her.

Matthews is the mother of 19-year-old Gerald Walker, Jr.

He's facing animal cruelty charges after humane officers rescued his 3-year-old dog, a pit bull mix named Effie, from an apartment in Homewood last month.

She was severely emaciated and very ill when officials seized her. She required surgery to unblock her intestines because she was forced to eat whatever she could find.

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However, through Facebook on Thursday, the Western Pa. Humane Society said in an update to her condition that Effie is doing much better and has gained some weight.

The update says: "This little girl who was barely surviving when she came under our care, and got through a surgery 50 pounds underweight, is now a happy, loved and full-bellied pup. She still has a ways to go. Thanks to everyone for your support."