A Branford man charged with choking his dog to death dropped his bid for a probation program as nearly 50 animal rights activists protested outside the courthouse.

The New Haven Register reports that 22-year-old Alex Wullaert of Branford withdrew his application for accelerated rehabilitation Thursday. The program is for non-violent, first-time offenders and results in charges being dismissed after a probation period.

Animal rights activists shouted "murderer" and "coward" outside New Haven Superior Court.

Police allege Wullaert strangled his pit bull-boxer mix named Desmond in January after it urinated on his leg and bit him. He was charged with cruelty to animals and littering after allegedly dumping the dog's body in a pond in Madison.

Wullaert is due back in court Sept. 13. He has not entered pleas.