Emaciated dog found in Chester park passes away

When a humane officer with a local shelter happened upon an underweight dog at the park, he didn't waste any time getting the pup the care he desperately needed. (Photos via Providence Animal Center)

An emaciated dog that was found in Delaware County last month has died, despite the continuous efforts of a local animal shelter.

Sly the dog was found extremely underweight and left to die in Deshong Park, in Chester.

Human Officer Ron Riggle got a call about the dog on April 24, and responded to the park to find the emaciated dog tucked away under some brush.  

Sly could barely lift his head and was only 50 pounds when Riggle found him. Dogs his size should ordinarily weigh twice as much. Authorities say his arm and stomach were shaved as if he had received an ultrasound or catheter recently.

MORE: Shelter rescues emaciated dog found left to die in Delco park

Officer Riggle rushed the dog to the medical suite at Providence Animal Shelter in Media.

An x-ray revealed a rope toy had caused a blockage in the dog’s intestines and vets performed emergency surgery.

Sly, who was named in honor of Sylvester Stallone and his portrayal of ‘Rocky Balboa,’ was then set on the long road to recover.

Providence Animal Center continued sharing updates about Sly’s progress, as he regained the ability to lift his head, and was even spotted wagging his tail.

Then, this past Friday, Sly’s condition worsened. He was having trouble breathing and it was determined he had pneumonia.

A few days later, on Sunday evening, Providence Animal Center announced Sly had passed away.

In a post, the Providence Animal Center shared a photo of sly along with the following message:

Anyone with information regarding Sly’s abandonment is urged to call Humane Officer Ron Riggle at (610) 566-1370 ext. 214 or email him directly.

To learn more about Providence Animal Center or to make a donation to support dogs like Sly, see here.