Critically Ill, Maggot-Infested Dog Abandoned In North County

ESCONDIDO, CA – The San Diego Humane Society and San Diego County Crime Stoppers are searching for the person responsible for abandoning a critically ill, maggot-infested dog in a box in Escondido. The 5-year-old miniature poodle mix later died.

The dog was dropped off May 19 outside the Humane Society's Escondido campus, officials said. Due to the severity of the dog's condition, the San Diego Humane Society's humane law enforcement division opened an investigation. The person responsible for the abuse could face felony charges of animal cruelty.

"The dog was left in a box with two chicken wings at the front door of our Escondido campus in horrific condition," humane law enforcement Capt. Danee Cook said. "She had a very large tumor on her abdomen that was open, infected and she was infested with maggots."

Cook said it was clear the canine suffered and lacked medical care for a long period of time.

"Our medical team did all they could to alleviate her pain, but unfortunately, we weren't able to save her," Cook said.

San Diego County Crime Stoppers is offering a $1,000 reward for information that leads to an arrest in this case. Tipsters can call 888-580-8477 or visit www.sdcrimestoppers.com. Information can also be reported to San Diego Humane Society's humane law enforcement at 619-243-3466.

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