Denison Dog Rescued After Being Abandoned with Severe Injuries

The dog, named Maggie, was discovered in a cage Saturday evening by Good Samaritans. According to DAWG President Stephanie Phillips, Maggie had multiple puncture wounds around her head and neck, suggesting she may have been attacked by coyotes or another dog, or possibly used as a bait dog.

Rescuers transported her to an emergency clinic, which then contacted DAWG for assistance. Maggie's treatment has proven challenging; she required anesthesia for wound debridement and extensive care to address her injuries. "They unfortunately had to pick a lot of maggots out. It’s mainly the aftercare that is going to take to get her healed," Phillips explained.

Recognizing that the shelter environment might not be ideal for Maggie's recovery, a DAWG kennel technician, Nichole Thornock, stepped up to foster her at home. Thornock noted, "When I found her, she was in a corner just facing that corner completely shut down. Just seeing her wounds literally broke my heart. I have a foster room at home, so it’s like you are my new foster."

Though Maggie remains wary of humans, she is beginning to show signs of improvement, including wagging her tail.

The vet bills for Maggie's care have exceeded $10,000, prompting DAWG to seek donations from the community, as well as volunteers and foster homes for other animals in need. More information can be found on DAWG's website.