Extremely Neglected Pit Bull Finds His Forever Family In South OC

MISSION VIEJO, CA — A South Orange County family just got a little bit bigger, after an extremely neglected pit bull named Ernie was adopted by his foster family this week, the Mission Viejo Animal Services Center said Monday.

Ernie, the 7-year-old pit bull, was originally seized from his owners in April and taken to the Mission Viejo Animal Services Center. He had 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.

"Ernie had open, bloody wounds across his body with the most affected areas around and in his eyes and on his feet," the statement said.

Once taken in by MVAS, Ernie received excellent care and his skin condition ultimately healed. A local family who had heard Ernie's story later applied to foster him.

"We received regular updates of how well Ernie was adjusting to life with his foster family," the MVAS statement said. "He was even sleeping in bed with them."

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

Just this week, Ernie's foster family officially adopted the 7-year-old pup.

"The family arrived at MVAS along with Ernie to sign the final adoption paperwork. Staff and volunteers at MVAS stopped by to see Ernie and say goodbye," The statement said. "Everyone cheered and cried tears of joy because Ernie is so happy, healthy, and loved by his forever family. Ernie wagged his tail, loved all the attention, and let out a big howl as if to say 'Thank You.'"