That is so sad and makes me very angry. Also I understand your reluctance to risk being targeted if you report them and they find out.

I would recommend the following,

- Compose a nice ANONYMOUS letter with paragraph #1 warmly welcoming them to the neighborhood.

- But in paragraph #2 state that their treatment of their dog is inhumane and absolutely unacceptable and while you understand they probably have their hands full with their family this is no excuse for mistreating a dog. Further state that you will wait 7 days but if this situation does not improve in that time you will file a complaint against them. Stress how much you would prefer not to have to do such a thing.

- Mention that you live down the street and cannot even imagine how hard this must be for the neighbors directly behind them (this is a little dishonest but could help protect your anonymity!)

- Mention that several of the neighbors have noticed the dog's condition and wondered if it was going to improve.

- Finish in paragraph #3 by repeating the warm welcome. You might even say you are sending this anonymously because you do not wish to embarrass them or hurt their feelings but you are deeply concerned about the dog's well-being.

- Be sure to type or print on your printer both the letter and envelope and send from a public mailbox with no return address on your letter or envelope.

Wait 7 days and then report them anonymously if conditions have not improved!