"Hank made some big waves this month after he was discovered shivering, tied to a tree, with all his ribs showing", explained SPCA of Wake County.
Sharing his story to Facebook, the team posted a heartbreaking photo of the little brown and white dog, hunched over while he waited to be rescued.
A new beginning
Thankfully, rescue workers were alerted to Hank's story, immediately stepping in to help.
Shockingly, it turns out that the dog did have an owner, but after "much discussion and the owner's request of $500, Hank was voluntarily relinquished".
Having arrived with Promoting Animal Welfare in NC, Hank spent a week gobbling up food, resting and starting a programme of physical rehabilitation.
"Yesterday, we had the absolute pleasure of welcoming Hank to SPCA Wake, picking up the baton on helping this sweet guy continue to recover and find a loving home in time for the holidays", wrote the SPCA.
Justice for Hank
"Hope you file charges against these people", wrote a viewer.
"Law enforcement is currently assessing the situation, to see if charges can be brought", replied the SPCA.
Thanks to the efforts of animal lovers, volunteers and rescue organisations, Hank will now go on to find the loving home he deserves.
