Neglected, starved 11-year-old dog Tanner ready for new start, loving home

RAVENNA, Ohio - For almost five months, 11-year-old Tanner has been living at the Portage APL being nursed back to health. His story kept a secret due to charges filed against his owner for animal cruelty. 

In late August 2012, Portage APL humane officers were called out to Hiram for a dog in bad shape. When they arrived, Tanner, a German Shepherd, was found emaciated and barely able to walk. His ribs, pelvic bone and vertebrae were showing, he lost much of his hair, revealing scabs, sores and peeling skin.

"On a scale of one to nine, one being the worst, his body score was a two," explained Portage APL executive director Chalan Lowry.

Tanner was immediately taken to a veterinarian, where he spent days being pumped with fluids, food and pain medicine. He got a bath and blood work. At that point, he weighed only 62 pounds, was weak, had fleas, was anemic and had low glucose from malnutrition.

But during Tanner's treatment and care, Lowry said his owner came forward and was informed of animal cruelty charges coming.

Last week, court concluded where the APL was given custody of Tanner. Workers are ready to help him again: by finding a loving family for Tanner to spend his last years with.

Weekly trips to the doctor have paid off. Tanner has gotten stronger and healthier over the past few months, though recovery is slower at his age. In all, he's gained 17 pounds, now weighing 79. His skin is healed, he's able to walk and through it all, Tanner has been a sweet, kind and friendly dog, the APL said.

Tanner will be neutered and then is ready for adoption!

"Finally, he can live out the rest of his life as a beloved family member. He is elderly and may not have many years ahead of him," said Lowry. "Portage APL only hopes that someone will open their hearts to a senior dog who is deserving of love." 

The APL continues to rescue animals every day, with the need increasing each year. Portage APL is a private, nonprofit organization. To make a donation or for more information, you can call the Portage Animal Protective League at (330) 296-4022, follow them on Facebook or visit their website: http://portageapl.org/Donate_Online.