ELBOW LAKE, Minn. (Valley News Live) – Staff at the Grant County Humane Society are racing to save a severely neglected dog who arrived this week in some of the worst condition they say they’ve seen.

The 4-year-old dog, named Snoopy, was surrendered by a local family, according to the shelter.

His background information is limited, but staff said the dog was taken to a local animal hospital by his previous owner, who has records of visits in 2022. They believe his owner’s did not attend any follow-up appointments, despite being instructed to do so.

When he came in, Snoopy was missing most of his hair and some nails, and was suffering from widespread skin infection that left his paws and even his tongue badly swollen.

“It’s really heartbreaking when you see some of the conditions the animals come in,” said Grant County Humane Society Treasurer, Marita Johnson.

Because of the severity of his condition, staff say they immediately waived the usual surrender fee and rushed Snoopy straight to a veterinarian.

“We took one look at Snoopy, we stuck the rope and leash on him, and immediately took him to the vet,” Johnson said. “We didn’t even question it.”

Veterinarians initially debated whether euthanasia might be the most humane option, but after several days of specialized care, Snoopy began to slowly improve.

“You could tell by his eyes he’s pleading for help. He wanted somebody,” added Johnson. “We just said, we’re going for it.”

Shelter workers say Snoopy will likely need extensive ongoing treatment, including continued veterinary care and monitoring.

They expect that, if his recovery continues, he could eventually be placed in a foster-to-adopt home, with the rescue covering his medical costs for as long as needed.

For now, the dog travels back and forth with staff to receive near round-the-clock care as he heals.

To help cover Snoopy’s medical bills, the Grant County Humane Society is holding a fundraising event Saturday, April 18, at Knotty Pine Bar & Grill in Elbow Lake.

The 13th annual wine tasting and silent auction runs from 7 to 9 p.m., and organizers say all money donated will go directly toward Snoopy’s veterinary expenses.

Supporters can also bring in-kind donations for Snoopy and other animals at the shelter. The humane society has posted wish lists on its Facebook page and accepts financial donations via Venmo and PayPal, as well as checks mailed to:

1015 Highway 79 Elbow Lake, MN, 56531.