Neglected, starving dog recovering, will be available for adoption after reaching goal weight

A pit bull terrier found confined to a crate in a dark basement with no visible food or water is recovering in the BC SPCA’s care.

Two-year-old Luffy was extremely emaciated when he was surrendered to an animal protection officer who was responding to a complaint about his living conditions and health, the organization says.

“When Luffy came into the animal centre, we immediately brought him to an emergency vet,” said Kristen Sumner, manager of the BC SPCA’s North Cariboo animal centre.

“Luffy was so extremely starved, he could only be given food or water under a veterinarian’s care because of the risk to his brain and other organs.”

The dog, who has also been treated for internal parasites, was put on IV fluids in the emergency clinic for four days and administered calories in the form of a nutrient-dense paste via syringe.

Sumner says Luffy has started gaining weight, but progress has been slow and there is still a long way to go.

“Due to the scarcity of food in the home where he was living, we are also working with him on his resource guarding and to build his trust and confidence that there will always be food for him,” she said.

Sumner calls him a gentle giant who adores people.

“He loves his walks bundled up in a coat to protect him from the cold,” she said. “He shows so much desire to learn and is beyond food motivated. We have been keeping his routine very consistent and he is finally relaxed enough to enjoy his comfy big bed instead of constantly worrying about getting another meal.”

The association says the pooch will be available for adoption once he gains sufficient weight and has been neutered.

The BC SPCA says it will be recommending charges. The case is currently under investigation.