SPCA: Puppy Found Abandoned in Duffel Bag

Chester,Pa.--(WTXF)--A sweet 16-week-old puppy named Duffy was found abandoned in Chester in a duffel bag, according to the SPCA.

"In 105 degrees it's very near death. 107 she probably would have died," said Justina Calgiano with the Delaware County SPCA.

She's talking about a precious Pit Bull mix puppy struggling to get well.

Workers at the Delaware County SPCA got a the disturbing call around 4:30 Wednesday afternoon. An Animal Control officer called them about a puppy found stuffed in a duffel bag on a scorching hot day abandoned near a bench in Pulaski Park in Chester. They're calling her Duffy because of where she was found, overheated and severely dehydrated.

"Her temperature initially was 105 degrees and normal temperature for a dog should be about 101 to 101 ½," said veterinarian Gia Croce.

Tests also found Duffy has parvovirus which is infectious and contagious among canines who aren't vaccinated. It affects their immune system. She also appears to have been neglected.

"She does appear underweight particularly if you lift her skin it's very thin and holds and you can also feel her vertebrae easily," said Croce.

Duffy is hooked to an IV. She's on antibiotics and pain medicine. It could be weeks before she is better and the next two days are critical.

"It makes you think that human kind is very, very sad," said Calgiano.

Duffy's medical care is expected to cost between $3,000 and $5,000. If you'd like to make a donation contact the Delaware County SPCA. You can also donate online by clicking here.