Local Vet Saves Emaciated Dog As Police Seek Owners

A local veterinary clinic helped nurse back to life a tragically emaciated pit bull, who was found abandoned in Trenton. She had plastic lodged in her gums, was unable to close her mouth, and had a screw in her stomach, according to CARES, a veterinary clinic in Langhorne.

It was there where officers from the Trenton Police Department took Rue, the approximately two-year-old dog, after rescuing her from the woods on Lamberton Road at Duck Island. "She definitely didn't get down there by herself," said Officer Joe Antonello. "No question, if I had found her an hour later, she would have died. This type of crime is considered an indictable offense under NJ state law."

CARES, in an announcement, said its veterinarians got right to work on Rue. She weighs only 26 pounds, she was found to be both anemic and cachetic, according to information from veterinarians there.

A heart murmur is also present and is likely a result of the anemia. Rue, who also has a heart murmur as a result of anemia, is receiving fluids, a blood transfusion and antibiotics.

Rue is described as a "sweet and affectionate girl who gives lots of kisses." She was expected to be released from the hospital Tuesday. After that, she will be cared for at home, by one of CARES nurses.

"Rue has a strong will to get better and she has stolen our hearts," said CARES Emergency Veterinarian Dr. Morgan Callahan.

Anyone with information on Rue or her owners is asked to contact Trenton Humane Law Enforcement and Animal Services at 609-989-3254.

PHOTO: Courtesy of CARES