The dog, weighing just 23 pounds (10 kilograms), was found on 10 December by a passerby who noticed the bag was moving.
Only the dog’s head protruded from the bag, which had been sealed with tape, rendering the animal unable to walk.
Bulldog under vet care
Sgt. Paul Parizek, police spokesperson in Des Moines, Iowa, confirmed the poor Bulldog is now under veterinary care and showing signs of recovery.
The dog’s cropped ears suggest he may have previously received veterinary treatment.
Public outrage erupted following the release of photos of the bulldog in the garbage bag, with Des Moines Police’s Facebook post attracting over 3,000 reactions and thousands of shares.
Urge for information
Investigators hope someone will recognise the dog and provide leads to identify the individual responsible.
The post sparked widespread condemnation of America’s animal cruelty laws, with commenters branding them inadequate and calling for harsher penalties.
Authorities urge anyone with information to contact Des Moines Police, stressing that such acts of cruelty will not be tolerated. Meanwhile, the bulldog continues his slow recovery under veterinary supervision.
