Ricky Lee Pearson, 37 of Rome, was arrested this week after reports said he was found mistreating four animals.
Police said that a pit bull mix was found with self-induced skin lesions, and skin tenting from severe dehydration and malnourishment. It was also infested with fleas, had ulcerations on the ears, and tested positive for heartworms.
A second dog, a emaciated brindle mix was found with intestinal parasites, hookworms, fleas and wounds to the neck from being led with a tight ripe.
A third dog, another brindle mix, was found emaciated with a voracious appetite.
The fourth dog, was tethered by a heavy chain and lock to a tree without food and water.
Pearson is charged with two counts aggravated cruelty to animals and cruelty to animals.
