SPCA: Dog victim of 'horrendous' cruelty

A large dog so emaciated and brutalized that the Delco SPCA can't determine its breed was rescued in Darby Borough today and now the hunt is on for the heartless animal who inflicted unending pain upon the pup.

In a news release, Justina Calgiano, spokeswoman for the Delco SPCA, said the dog, whom staffers have appropriately named Trooper, was found early this morning with a shackle "embedded" in his neck.

"It's currently hard (to) tell the dog's breed since he's so emaciated - nearly half of his body weight, but Delco SPCA staff members think he may be a Mastiff or Great Dane," Calgiano wrote.

Trooper has already undergone surgery today to remove the shackle and repair his neck.

SPCA officials are asking anyone who knows Trooper's owner or anyone who may know the person who committed "this horrendous act" to call Delco SPCA Humane Society police Ofc. Ron Riggle at 610-566-1370 ext. 214 or email him at rriggle@delcospca.org.

The Delco SPCA is also asking for donations to assist in Trooper's care and recovery. Donations can be made at delcospca.org/get-involved/donate.

Thank God Trooper is finally in the care of those who know he's a keeper.