UPDATE: Roxanne made it through surgery. Her head and neck are still extremely swollen; veterinarians had to stitch up 95% of the dog's neck. Follow Roxanne's recovery here.
In Columbia, South Carolina, a one-year-old stray dog was found dragging a six-pound-three-ounce chain wrapped around her neck on Wednesday; the dog's artery was exposed, her head grossly swollen from the edema and her life hanging by a thread.
When Pawmetto Lifeline's rescue program HEART (Help Every Animal Reach Tomorrow) contacted Rescue Dogs Rock NYC for emergency help, co-founder Jackie O'Sullivan was stunned by the graphic photos and had to stop in her tracks to catch her breath.
"It's as if everything stops when you view something this awful, and you have to take a minute to regroup and take it all in. You are in shock and cannot speak or act for several seconds," Jackie wrote on the organization's Facebook page soon after preliminary arrangements had been coordinated to rush the dog to their South Carolina partner veterinarian for life-saving care.
Not much is known about the background of the 50-pound female pit bull terrier, dubbed Roxanne, except that her condition was urgent. The chain around her neck was enormous - more than 10% of Roxanne's total body weight. Heavy bolt cutters freed her from her first major hurdle, and then she was rushed into surgery. Veterinarians reported her entire neck seriously opened and bleeding; an artery exposed and her face and neck seriously swollen as a direct result of the chain nearly choking her to death.
Authorities have been notified, however the first priority for Rescue Dogs Rock NYC is to save Roxanne's life.
"Roxanne needs your prayers and funds now. We are sickened and will share more as this horrific story of abuse unfolds. Our hearts are broken for this poor dog," stated Jackie.
The attached photos tell more of Roxanne's story. Some of the pictures are extremely graphic and may not be suitable for all viewing audiences.To help with Roxanne's veterinary expenses, donations can be made by clicking here.
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