Lottery winner claims $4 million prize with dog, plans on donating to animal rescue

PEABODY, Mass. (TND) — A Massachusetts man couldn't leave his best friend behind when he went to claim his $4 million lottery prize.

Paul Riley won the prize in the Massachusetts State Lottery's "100X Cash" instant ticket game. Lottery officials said he opted to receive a one-time payment of $2.6 million before taxes.

Riley, being an animal lover, said he plans to use some of the money to make a donation to the Animal Rescue League (ARL). He said he also plans to buy his wife a new car.

The Animal Rescue League of Boston has saved over 6.2 million animals since 1899, according to their website.

"With over 1,200 dedicated volunteers and 100 staff members, ARL lends unwavering support to local animals, families, and neighborhoods," according to ARL. "We provide outstanding veterinary care, adoption, and field services. We also confront the root causes of animal cruelty and neglect through special police investigation and advocacy aimed at strengthening the laws that protect animals."

The Peabody convenience store that sold him the ticket will receive $40,000.