Stray dog discovered in 'horrific condition' with overgrown nails, severely matted hair - Action News
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Calgary

Stray dog discovered in 'horrific condition' with overgrown nails, severely matted hair

The Calgary Humane Society says it's never seen a situation this bad and wants to speak with the owner of a strayfemaleshih tzufound in northeast Calgary on Sunday.

WARNING: This story contains graphic images of a dog treated for neglect

The Calgary Humane Society cared for an older shih tzu dog found in a state of severe neglect on Sunday. This photo was taken after its matted fur had been dealt with. (Submitted by Calgary Humane Society)

WARNING: This story contains images of a dog in a state of severe neglect that might be disturbing to some readers.

The Calgary Humane Society says it's never seen a situation this bad and wants to speak with the owner of a strayfemaleshih tzufound in northeast Calgary on Sunday.

In the early morning, an individual on a walk found the senior dog along 32nd Avenue N.E. near the city bus depot between Ninth Street and 36th Avenue N.E.

"In this case,the physical condition of the animal, no reasonable person would look at the animal and say that's not a problem," said Brad Nichols, director of operations and enforcement with the society.

"So, the recklessness of keeping a dog in that condition, and the intent behind not correcting it, that could send it into criminal territory."

The Calgary Humane Society said the dog was in horrific condition with severely matted fur. (Submitted by Calgary Humane Society)

The humane society said the dog had severely matted hair and was soaked with urine and feces. Her nails were overgrown and curled into the pads of her feet.

The person who found the dog brought it to an emergency veterinary clinic,which contactedthe humane society.

The dog was takento the humane society, where it was cared for and dematted.

On further examination, it was determined the dog was suffering from an infected uterus. That can be fatal to dogs if left untreated.

"This dog was incredibly lucky to have strayed and been found by this good Samaritan, as ultimately she got the care that she desperately needed to survive,"Nichols said.

The shih tzu was soaked with urine and feces and her nails were overgrown and curled into the pads of her feet. (Submitted by Calgary Humane Society)

The dog is recovering. Upon further behavioural testing, she may be rehomed, according to Nichols.

"We would definitely look at this and look for a Crown prosecutor opinion on what direction to go with charges, should we get to that point," he said. "But this is some of the worst neglect I've seen."

Nichols said the humane society hasexhausted itsefforts searching for the owner and is now asking the public to report any information that may help with its investigation.

The humane society is requesting the public call at 403-205-4455 with any information.

With files from Colleen Underwood