Dog was ‘begging for help’ and could barely lift head — then a PA shelter stepped in
A dog that was rescued from deplorable conditions is now on the path to healing in Philadelphia after someone stepped in.
When Animal Law Enforcement stepped into the home where a pup was living after receiving a call from a concerned person, they were taken aback by what was discovered.
“Our officers received a call from a Good Samaritan about a dog living in horrible conditions inside a home. The dog, seemingly begging for help, our Animal Law Enforcement team responded to the scene to provide just that,” the Pennsylvania Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals said in an Nov. 1 Facebook post.
“In a small crate with feces and urine built, lay Zoey. Every bone seemingly protruded beneath her soiled coat and she was reportedly too weak to even lift her head. Her emaciated body was a stark contrast to the unopened bag of dog food sitting on the counter. She weighed just 27lbs and scored a 1/9 on the Purina Body Condition scale. There is no lower score for a living animal.”
Zoey was rushed to the shelter’s hospital where she was cared for right away.
“She began medications to treat her itchy skin and ears, and most importantly, started a refeeding plan to help her gain weight safely,” the shelter said.
Even after all that she’s been through, the shelter says Zoey still adores people and will be ready for adoption after she’s healthy enough.
“But despite the cruelty she had endured, Zoey’s heart remains so full and desperate for connection. She loves everyone, even though people have failed her in the past.”
For information on other adoptable animals, visit the shelter’s website.
This story was originally published November 1, 2024 at 10:50 AM with the headline "Dog was ‘begging for help’ and could barely lift head — then a PA shelter stepped in."