SCHENECTADY, N.Y. -- A Schenectady woman is facing misdemeanor charges after the SPCA said she neglected her injured puppy.

According to the Schenectady County Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals, Elizabeth Moshier, 28, took her 6-month-old pit bull to the Aqueduct Animal Hospital in Niskayuna with a broken leg on Oct. 22. Moshier couldn't afford treatment for the puppy, so she left.

A veterinarian followed up with Moshier on Nov. 2 and expressed concern that she had yet to help the dog who was still injured and in pain. The vet offered to take the dog and provide necessary treatment.

"A pet shouldn't pay the price of the recession," said Schenectady County SPCA Public Information Officer David Dean. "Even in tough economic times, pet owners are responsible for making sure their animal's basic needs are met. Owners have alternatives other than neglect."

Moshier was booked at the Schenectady Police Department and is facing misdemeanor charges of neglecting her animal.

Dean said anyone who is facing financial hardship should call the SPCA for advice on how to handle their situation.