JAMES CITY — James City County authorities are seeking the community’s help after discovering an injured and underweight dog that could have been abused.

Animal control officers picked up a stray dog in the 3300 block of Chickahominy Road on Feb. 16 and found him to be showing signs of being kept in a confined space, police said Wednesday. The dog required emergency surgery to remove mattress material and trash from his stomach, said police spokeswoman Patty Schlosser.

Animals sometimes ingest such items when starving, Schlosser said.

According to a veterinarian, the dog, a terrier/pit bull mix about 2 years old, was “significantly underweight, has minimal muscle along his spine and hips, and shows a highly arched spinal cord, likely the result of being kept in a crate that was too small,” a news release said.

The dog is now is in the care of the Heritage Humane Society. He did not have a collar, microchip or tattoo when found, but did have neatly trimmed nails.

Animal Control is asking anyone who recognizes the dog or has information on his owner to contact Sgt. Tony Quiros at 757-565-0370, the crime line at 1-888-LOCK-U-UP or submit a tip online at P3TIPS.com or on the P3TIPS smartphone app.

Callers can remain anonymous. Tips leading to an arrest may be eligible for a cash reward.

James W. Robinson, 757-799-0621, james.robinson@virginiamedia.com

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