Last week, Animal Control officers found a dog abandoned in a blanket in Riverview Park. She was severely emaciated and dehydrated, and was immediately brought to Humane Animal Rescue of Pittsburgh’s East End shelter for urgent medical care.

She spent her first few days receiving fluids, and has begun a specially-designed refeeding program so that she can safely be brought to a healthy weight.

The dog — named Natale by HARP staff — was terrified upon arrival, but has quickly come around to enjoy the company of people. She loves to lay in laps, is completely housebroken, and knows how to walk on a leash. We don’t know what happened to sweet Natale, but it’s clear she was someone’s pet at some point in her life.

Natale was brought in with a Body Condition Score of 1, the lowest on a scale of 1-9, indicating an emaciated condition. Despite her larger frame, she weighed only 30 lbs when she arrived at HARP.

At only two years old, Natale has already endured great hardship. We may never know her story, but we will continue to monitor her closely and guide her down the road to a healthy weight and a happy life.

We will update you periodically as Natale recovers from extreme neglect, and begins her search for a new start.