'Extreme Neglect': Dog Named Ernie Rehabilitated In Mission Viejo

MISSION VIEJO, CA — One special 7-year-old pit bull named Ernie is getting a second chance at life after he was brought to the Mission Viejo Animal Services Center with severe skin issues caused by extreme neglect and lack of veterinary care.

"Upon arriving at the dog owner's home and seeing Ernie, our Animal Services Officer knew immediately he would be seizing the dog for its own safety and filing charges against his owners," an MVAS news release said.

According to the release, Ernie had open and bloody wounds across his body, including around/in his eyes and on his feet.

"He was extremely uncomfortable and itchy and had trouble walking because his feet were so swollen with infection," the statement said.

After officers took Ernie from his previous home, he was immediately seen by a veterinarian and prescribed treatment for his skin. After receiving the excellent care from animal care technicians at the city's nonprofit Dedicated Animal Welfare Group, Ernie's skin is healed and he is ready to be adopted.

"This dog deserves the kind of love and care that he should have received in the first place," the news release said. "Ernie is a true gentle giant that holds no grudges and loves everyone he meets."

If you are interested in adopting Ernie, visit the Mission Viejo Animal Services Center's website to fill out an adoption application.