WARNING: This story contains graphic information.
A New Brunswick animal rescue group is investigating a horrific case of animal abuse in the province.
Kent County Animal Rescue says a dog they recently rescued was starving to death and found covered in maggots.
Nicole Thebeau says the dog — who has no name at this time — was found Friday at Main River Bridge near Rexton.
The dog was originally found in the water by a woman who saved it from drowning. Thebeau believes the dog was tied to a chain for some time and did not have access to food or water for weeks. Thebeau says because of this, officials believe the dog was so desperate he chewed on his chain, which resulted in his teeth being worn down.
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Once the dog was loose, Thebeau says it appears he was attacked by other dogs, which resulted in several holes to his backside. It’s believed the dog originally jumped in the water as a way to provide some relief to its injuries — but was too weak to swim.
It took a veterinarian hours to remove more than 1,000 maggots that were found all over the dog.
The dog was also emaciated. His blood and sugars were extremely low and they believe he was starving to death when he was found.
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According to Thebeau, the dog is doing alright but is too weak for surgery.
He will stay at the vet until Thursday, at that point, he will go to live with Thebeau for a period of time. Once he is strong enough for surgery, the dog will require weeks of bandage changes and a special diet.
Anyone interested in donating money to help cover vet bills for the dog is asked to contact the Riverview Animal Hospital at 506-387-4015.