Severely Injured, Neglected Dog Gets New Leash On Life In Somerset County

BASKING RIDGE, NJ — A German Shephard, who was not expected to survive due to his severe injuries, is making a comeback in Basking Ridge. Now donations are needed to help fund his weekly $2,000 veterinary costs.

The dog, nicknamed "Gladstone," was found injured on April 2 at about 4:53 a.m. trying to get into a Peapack & Gladstone home when homeowners called police.

Police called Kate Ferratti from Bernards Township Animal Control to get the dog who was more than happy to go with her, said Bernards Township Animal Control Officer and Humane Officer Michele Santoro to Patch.

"He is such a good boy. His personality is great and he literally went right into the van," said Santoro.

Gladstone was in "extremely poor shape." He was not expected to survive, according to Garden State German Shepherd Rescue (GSGSR), which will be taking possession of Gladstone once he recovers.

"He was in extremely poor shape, with his skin nearly peeling off of his face and abdomen. His fur was patchy, he had open wounds around his body, and his groin area had exposed tissue," according to GSGSR.

Initially, authorities thought Gladstone's injuries were caused by another animal, and was taken to Basking Ridge Animal Hospital. Read More: Injured Dog Prompts Animal Cruelty Probe By Peapack & Gladstone Police

A veterinarian determined that the dog was not attacked by another animal and the cause of its injuries was due to extreme neglect and cruelty, said Peapack & Gladstone police.

"His injuries were determined to be a horrific case of mange, as well as scabies (skin mites) that were both so painful and itchy that poor Gladstone nearly mutilated his own skin, attempting to soothe the itching. This led to further infections (both skin and internal), which require additional medication to help control," said GSGSR.

One week later, Gladstone is on the mend but it will be slow going for a while.

"I want to say thank you to Dr. Melissa Rotella and Dr. Erno Hollo. They have done a wonderful job," said Santoro. "This dog was in really, really bad shape. And the care they offered is why this dog is making it."

As of Monday, April 11, Gladstone completed the 7-day hold as required by New Jersey N.J.S.A 4:19-15.16 and now belongs to the GSGSR.

He will continue to be treated at the animal hospital and his ongoing care is estimated to be near $2,000 weekly (this estimate is without unplanned complications).

"Gladstone will be receiving daily pain medication and antibiotics, ongoing medicated salves and baths, as well as injections to curb the mange, mites, and infections. He may also need a skin graft if his body cannot heal his deep wounds on its own," according to GSGSR.

A GoFundMe fundraising website has been set up for Gladstone by GSGSR, a New Jersey-based non-profit organization comprised completely of volunteers. The funds will be used to cover any medical expenses for Gladstone.

"It's been quite the undertaking of expenses on our end or [GSGSR] end," said Santoro. "We know he's worth it. We are glad we were able to help him and grateful for the rescue."

Throughout the entire ordeal, Santoro said Gladstone has been in good spirits.

"He has just been wonderful since. His temperament - you couldn't ask for a better pup," said Santoro.

Police are still searching for Gladstone's owners in connection with animal cruelty charges. Anyone with information on the dog or his owners are asked to reach out to Peapack & Gladstone Detective Adam Caruso at acaruso@peapackgladstonepd.org.

"The PG Police would like to thank Michele Santoro and Kate Ferratti of Bernards Twp. Animal Control as well as the Basking Ridge Animal Hospital for their continued assistance and care of 'Gladstone,' said Sergeant Thomas Scanlon.

For more information on the GoFundMe click here.

— GoFundMe is a promotional partner of Patch

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