Puppyhood should be a time of learning, discovery and positive experiences, but sadly for a Malinois puppy in France, this couldn't have been further from reality.
The 5-month-old was kept alone in the dark, with the intention of training him for personal protection.
Signs of abuse
By the time the authorities were alerted, the puppy had already endured a living nightmare.
He was locked in an unsanitary, darkened room, on the 6th floor of an apartment building. When the police finally gained access to the property, they discovered he had a fractured front leg, that was so painful he couldn't even put it down.
The poor pup was removed from the owner's care immediately, and from there, a wonderful show of support began.
A chain reaction
As soon as the puppy had been brought to safety, the police, volunteers and vets started working together, explained rescue organisation Les 4 Pattons in a Facebook post. Their collaboration meant the puppy received all the care he needed to make a fully recovery.
A petition was also set up demanding justice for the puppy, with hundreds of people writing in to show their support.
Collective action and community support have all played a part in transforming the life of a dog in need. Now, he will spend the rest of his days safe and cared for by a loving family of his own.
