Veterinarians were shocked when X-rays of a rescued dog named Zoe revealed multiple bones in her stomach, indicating severe neglect and starvation. Zoe, a nine-year-old German Shepherd, was found with an amputated front leg in an apartment in Exeter, New York.

A delivery driver discovered Zoe in distress and promptly took her to a veterinary clinic for urgent care. The X-ray results were alarming, showing bones in the dog’s stomach despite her being starved for an extended period. It is believed that she may have resorted to eating parts of her own leg in her desperate fight for survival. Following the investigation, her owner, Carl Pritchard, was arrested for animal cruelty.

Stacie Haynes, executive director of the Susquehanna Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals (SPCA), expressed her concern about Zoe’s condition. “If she had not been found, she could have died in agony. The X-ray images revealed bones in her stomach, and given her amputation, we believe she was so desperate that she may have eaten her own leg,” Haynes explained.

In addition to the amputation, Zoe exhibited other untreated injuries, suggesting she had been abandoned for several days prior to her rescue. One notable injury was an unusual swelling on her shoulder. Initially, veterinarians feared it could be a sign of bone cancer, which might have led Zoe to bite off her leg due to unbearable pain. However, further examinations revealed that the swelling was actually a mass of fatty tissue surrounding her shoulder, chest, and artery.

Zoe required surgery to remove the fatty tissue, but her weakened condition raised concerns about her survival. Fortunately, she managed to pull through the operation and is now on the road to recovery.

Carl Pritchard, Zoe’s 59-year-old owner, faces multiple charges including animal cruelty and failing to provide adequate shelter and care. Following the investigation, Pritchard has relinquished ownership of Zoe and is set to appear in court on December 4.

Zoe’s story highlights the critical issue of animal neglect and the importance of community vigilance in protecting vulnerable animals. As she begins her healing journey, Zoe serves as a poignant reminder of the resilience of pets and the ongoing need for awareness and action in the realm of animal welfare.