The BC SPCA is hoping the public will help it raise money to cover costs of care for a dog brought in weighing about half of what he should.

Tank, an emaciated 2.5-year-old boxer, was brought in to the Vancouver branch just over a week ago. He was constantly shivering, and had a body condition score – a calculation based on criteria including how much excess fat and muscle are under the skin – of only one out of nine.

"I've been doing this 30 years and I was shocked," branch manager Jodi Dunlop told CTV News.

"He's literally bones and skin."

Tank has pressure sores on his body from lying down without having enough body fat to keep him comfortable. He also had a foreign object lodged in his intestines, which had to be surgically removed.

The dog was surrendered by his owner in a condition similar to that of Trooper, a dog involved in a high-profile cruelty case in 2010. The golden retriever weighed less than a bag of dog food when he was brought in to the Maple Ridge branch eight years ago, and he became a symbol for the fight against animal cruelty. 

The SPCA has launched a cruelty investigation into Tank's situation, but the costs of the case, his treatment and recovery are expected to be about $9,000.

Members of the non-profit are asking for the public's help to pay off Tank's tab. The SPCA relies primarily on public donations to help animals across the province.

Despite Tank's rough start, those who've met him said the dog is still affectionate and eager to please the humans in his life.

"He's a really sweet guy. We've only had him for a few hours and he's already wormed his way into our hearts pretty quickly," veterinarian Michael King said.

And Tank's prognosis is good.

"The expectation is that he's going to be getting back to normal, getting back to full health," King said.

For Tank, help came at just the right time. Dunlop is urging pet owners to seek care for their animals as soon as they need it, before it's too late.

"There are low-cost vet clinics that can help them out. Call us, we'll lead you in the right direction," she said.

Tank will remain on round-the-clock care for now, but will be put up for adoption when he's recovered. Dunlop said the SPCA has already seen interest from potential forever families.

"He's gentle and sweet and you know, everybody's rooting for him."

 

Donations to the BC SPCA can be made online or in person at 1205 East 7th Ave. in Vancouver.