Cumberland County Animal Control deputies humanely dispatched a suffering pit bull in Crab Orchard on September 10 after determining the animal was severely neglected and riddled with untreated wounds.

Deputy Daniel Grove responded to a call on Smith Mountain Road regarding an injured dog found in a front yard. Upon inspection, the male black-and-white pit bull was discovered to have severe bite wounds on its neck, widespread botfly larvae and maggots infesting open wounds along its spine and right ear, and failing hydration and circulation tests.

While an initial inquiry suggested the dog was a stray that had been roaming the area for up to a month, neighboring residents informed authorities that the animal actually belonged to a local resident. When confronted, the resident admitted her uncle had given her the dog two months prior, stating she lacked the financial means to seek veterinary care or end the animal’s suffering.

Following consultation with Cumberland County Animal Shelter Director Andrea Gaskins and receiving consent from the owner, Deputy Grove used a department-issued .22 caliber rifle to humanely dispatch the suffering animal at the scene. The resident’s partner agreed to handle the burial arrangements.

Any charges against the owner were not mentioned in the report.