A Connecticut woman whose dog was found frozen to death outside on New Year's Day has been charged with animal cruelty.

Hartford police announced the charge Thursday against 50-year-old Michelle Bennett.

The 3-year-old male pit bull was found chained inside a dog house Monday in the backyard of a city home.

A veterinarian who examined the dog said it was "frozen solid" and also appeared to be malnourished because it was underweight for its size.

The dog had also been lying in its own feces.

According to police, the owner has been in jail on unrelated charges and said she had made arrangements for the dog's care.

Bennett was being held on bail and could not be reached.

It was not immediately clear if she has a lawyer.