A Boardman Veterinarian accused of keeping his 4-year-old son in a dog crate is expected in court today.

Police arrested 39-year-old Joseph Mullarkey at the Ebert Animal Hospital on South Avenue where he works.

His wife claims she received a text message from the vet saying he had locked his child in a dog cage.

She told police the boy was covered in dog hair and believed to be sitting in his own urine.

Mullarkey was arraigned today and told the judge he can't afford an attorney. The judge said an attorney will be appointed to represent him.

Mullarkey is charged with felony child endangering.