Severely Neglected Dog in Michigan Found Abandoned in Ditch

The Shiawassee Humane Society is asking for help after taking in a dog found in one of the most heartbreaking conditions they have ever seen. What she went through is hard to read about.

Libra is a 6-year-old goldendoodle who weighed just 22 pounds when she was found abandoned and starving in a ditch. To put that into perspective, a healthy dog of her size should weigh more than double that.

When the staff got their first look at her, it was bad. Like, really bad. Her fur was matted and caked with feces, so severe it was cutting off circulation to her tail and binding her paw pads directly to her skin. I didn’t want to share the photo, but you can see it here.

See Also: Dog Found Frozen to Death Outside Michigan Home

A vet exam found open, ulcerated sores on her toes and tail, clear signs that this had been going on for a long time. The Humane Society’s executive director said it is one of the worst cases of neglect she has ever seen.

According to ABC 12, this poor dog is now facing an uphill battle. She is dealing with a serious paw infection that is resistant to most common antibiotics, which means vets are using a powerful and expensive medication. On top of that, the humane society is handling twice-weekly bandage changes and intensive wound care.

All of that adds up fast, which is why the organization is asking for help covering the cost of her lifesaving treatment and supplies.

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The humane society is working with county animal control to identify the owner and pursue cruelty charges, and hopefully throw the book at whoever did this.

If you’re able to help, even a little, this is one of those cases where your money will truly make a difference.