Despite her severe wounds, Lily, a three-year-old beagle mix, is in high spirits.
"She greets everyone with a wagging tail and open heart," said Carol Caridad, president of Paws4You dog rescue.
Lily was dropped off by her owners to Miami-Dade Animal Services Tuesday with lacerations and deep abscesses that have become riddled with infection. Caridad said it is unclear how she became wounded, but the lacerations appear to be burn wounds.
Animal Services is investigating the case to see if the injuries are the result of animal neglect or abuse.
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In the meantime, Lily is facing months of treatment that will require thousands of dollars in veterinary expenses.
She will be put up for adoption after recovery, and Caridad says Lily should be considered like any other dog.
"People really need to adopt a shelter dog," she said. "Give them a second chance, they bounce back."
To help Lily by donating to her veterinary fund, visit www.paws4you.org or call 786-242-RESQ (7377).
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Photo Credit: Carol Caridad/Paws4You