UPDATE 1/12/22: DeSoto Veterinary Services said in a statement today that the dog found abandoned in a garbage bag near the side of a road in Arcadia had to be euthanized.
A veterinarian determined the dog, named "Momma" by the staff, was suffering from "extensive cancer growth" and that the dog would not recover due to the advanced stage of the disease, the animal's age and the poor state she was recovered in.
Staff are setting up a fund in "Momma's" honor, the funds for which will be used to treat animals in need of emergency care. Details are yet to be announced.
Our original reporting continues below.
Southwest Florida Crime Stoppers is offering a reward for tips leading to the arrest of whoever stuffed a malnourished senior dog in a garbage bag and left it in an Arcadia neighborhood.
A concerned citizen reported an "oddly-shaped garbage bag" near the intersection of NW Livingston Street and NW North Road, according to the DeSoto County Sheriff's Office Facebook post about the incident.
Deputies opened the bag and found the dog inside, still alive. DeSoto County Animal Control immediately took possession of the animal and began to feed and rehydrate it.
"There is absolutely NO reason to treat animals this way," says the social media post, "not when there are shelters available and/or people who would gladly adopt a pretty little lady like this one."
Deputies are accepting tips from those who recognize the dog and who may know the original owner. You can call 863-993-4700 with your information. To be eligible for the Crime Stoppers reward, call 1-800-780-TIPS.
