Who would wrap a tiny dog in a blanket, lock him in a crate and leave him in a ditch on the side of the road?
On Thursday, an animal control officer found a severely emaciated and dehydrated schnauzer poodle mix at the intersection of Rotondo Way and Rotondo Place in Norcross after receiving a call about the dog from a passerby, according to Gwinnett police spokesman Cpl. Deon Washington.
The dog may have been in the crate in urine and fecal matter for several weeks, up to several months, caregivers said. Based on the dog’s health when he was found, he had not been fed or given water in several days.
The dog’s injuries were extensive, including urine scald over most of his body, according to Dr. Solveig Evans, who treated the dog. The fur on his face was one solid mat. He was barely able to open his mouth because of the matting, Evans said. The dog, which authorities estimated to be about 2 years old, would whine in pain any time it was touched because of the condition of its fur and skin.
Named Adam by staffers at the animal shelter, the dog has been completely shaved of all matting and placed on IV fluids. Once he is stabilized at the shelter, a local rescue group will take Adam and care for him. The dog will need 24-hour medical care that cannot be provided at the shelter, Washington said. Despite his present condition, Adam may be able to make a full recovery and have a normal life, caregivers said.
Gwinnett County authorities are offering up to a $2,000 reward for information leading to an arrest and indictment in his case.
If anyone has any information, contact the Gwinnett County Animal Shelter at 770 339-3200. To remain anonymous, tipsters should contact Crime Stoppers at 404 577-TIPS (8477) or visit www.crimestoppersatlanta.org.
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