A terrible case of animal abuse.

An owner of a Golden Retriever allegedly abandons his dog leaving him chained for several months.

When Hammer first came to Best Friends Animal Hospital in Winfield, he didn't look good.

Veterinarian Steve Mahnken says, a friend of the owner who lives in Huntington, brought the dog to his clinic because she knew he could help.

"The skin had encompassed several links of the chain, it was something else." said Mahnken

Mahnken says it appears the dog was left to fend for himself for what appears to be five to six months but kept alive thru the generosity of neighbors. He says the owner used a heavy chain to tether Hammer, and it eventually became embedded in his neck.

"It was almost an inch deep, I could stick my finger in it to touch the knuckle." said Mahnken

Now Hammer is doing better, and taking any attention he can get.

Lawrence County Sheriff's are currently looking for the owner. In the meantime, Mahnken is helping Hammer find a good home, and plans to keep him from harm.

Veterinarian Mahnken says, "He will not be released to the owner, its not happening ever."

If you would like to help dogs like Hammer, you can call the Best Friends Animal Hospital to become a pet parent at 304-586-0490.