Neglected pit bull found in Lorain named Herbie has untreatable cancer

LORAIN, Ohio - The emaciated pit bull found in Lorain has an untreatable form of cancer, a Lorain County Dog Kennel volunteer said.

Herbie was barely alive and weighed only 25 pounds when he was found on West 11th Street on Dec. 2. He had suffered a fractured skull, his eyes were swollen and officers believed he had been neglected in a cage, the humane society said.

Over the next few weeks, he slowly gained weight as he struggled to lift his head and stand. Volunteers were even hopeful that he would be up for adoption in a couple months.

On Friday, a specialist diagnosed Herbie with adenocarcinoma, which is a non-operable and non-responsive form of cancer. He remains in the care of the Lorain Animal Clinic and its staff of 20.

“He looks forward to his walks outside. At this point in time Herbie is happy, eating well, and most importantly pain free,” the clinic posted on its website.

Last week, he was up to 51 pounds, but should still weigh closer to 75.

Meanwhile, the Humane Society of the United States and private donors are offering a reward of over $11,000 for information leading to the arrest and conviction of those responsible for Herbie’s mistreatment. Anyone with information should call the Lorain Police Department at 440-204-2555.

Donations can be made to The Wood Foundation at 4205 Oberlin Ave., Lorain, Ohio, 44053.