An abandoned Staffordshire Bull Terrier was was as skinny as 'a plastic bag' when he was discovered by a member of the public.
The four-year-old dog, who has been named Magic, was discovered by a passerby on a lane in Middlesbrough.
RSPCA inspectors discovered that he was suffering from an eye condition, dirty ear canals and a bad skin infection when he was found, as well as being emaciated from a lack of food.
RSPCA inspector Claire Wilson said: "I have done this job for nine years and am rarely shocked but when I saw the condition of this poor dog I was so horrified and upset.
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"He is as emaciated as a dog can possibly get while still being alive. I don't think he would still be here if he hadn't been found yesterday.
"The man who found him mistook him for a plastic bag at first glance but realised, thank goodness, that he was a dog and brought him to ask for our help.
"This poor dog also has a nasty and chronic skin infection, very dirty ear canals, discharge from his eyes and very long nails. He doesn't have a collar or a microchip so we do not know where he came from."
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Inspector Wilson said: "It is clear to me that he has been dumped after someone has let him deteriorate to this poor state of health without seeking vet treatment for his many health problems. I took him straight to the vets and I'm investigating the matter."
"I am very keen to find out what happened to this poor boy so would ask that anyone who knows where he has come from to contact us in complete confidence and leaves me a message so I can call them for more details."
Despite his ordeal, the neglected Staffie seems to be on the mend and is looking forward to meeting a new family that can look after him.
Clare Wilson said: "Thankfully Magic is looking a bit brighter today and is eating small amounts so we are hopeful he will pull through and that we will be able to find him a foster home."
Topics: RSPCA, Dog, UK News, News, Animals