A dog named Rocky, discovered starving inside a trash bag in Philadelphia, is showing signs of recovery as officials investigate the circumstances of his abandonment. Found last week on West Clappier Street, Rocky was initially so weak he could barely lift his head, according to rescuers.
Read More
After receiving treatment in an intensive care unit, Rocky returned for his first checkup post-discharge on Tuesday. Colleen Bell of GoodBoy Dog Recovery, who is fostering him, reported that he is eating, drinking, and beginning to gain weight. "Rocky got knocked down as far as anyone could get knocked down, but he is showing us that he’s a fighter," Bell said. "He has a strong will to live."
Veterinarian Amy Smagala of Twin Tails Veterinary Hospital noted that Rocky is moving more independently, holding up his head, and standing for extended periods, which she referred to as positive developments.
The Pennsylvania SPCA has launched an animal cruelty investigation into Rocky's abandonment. GoodBoy Dog Recovery is offering a $2,500 reward for information that leads to an arrest. Bell emphasized that there were better options besides abandoning a pet, stating, "There are certainly other options rather than starving your dog to death and throwing them away alive in the trash bag."
Despite the challenges ahead, Rocky's case has garnered a significant online following, with donations supporting his medical care.