Authorities say a former Union County couple who left their dog tied to a backyard fence for days after they moved out of state have been charged with animal cruelty.

Union County prosecutors say 27-year-old Curtis Swan and 29-year-old Aaleyah Clay moved from Roselle to Sandy Springs, Georgia, on Nov. 15. They allegedly told a neighbor they planned to eventually return to pick up the dog, a young male husky.

The dog had a severe, infected open wound covering much of his neck when an animal control officer found it at the home on Nov. 20. It received treatment and continues to recuperate at an animal shelter.

The couple could face 3-5 years in prison if convicted of the charges.