Back on March 16, 2011, a starving puppy was found in a trash chute by an apartment building’s superintendent in New Jersey. The dog was in a plastic bag and was found moments prior to being crushed by the trash compactor. Since the dog was found one day prior to St. Patrick’s Day, it was named Patrick. The owner of the dog was Kisha Curtis, who tied the dog to a railing for a week. It is not known if Curtis threw the dog into the chute or if it was done by another person.
Associated Humane Societies in New Jersey cared for the dog before he was taken to Garden State Veterinary Services.
“The veterinary staff immediately put him on intravenous fluid. His temperature was so low that it did not even register on the thermometer,” the Facebook page for Patrick said. When Patrick first arrived at the hospital he weighed all of 19 pounds but is now up to 50.
Patrick’s custody is being sought by Associated Humane Societies so they can advocate for stricter animal abuse laws. Associated Humane Societies will then work to find Patrick a new, full-time home. Also fighting for Patrick’s guardianship is that of the Garden State Veterinary Specialists of Tinton Falls. Patrick is currently staying with Patricia Smillie-Scavelli, the administrator of the hospital. She also would like to keep Patrick.
“He really gives love,” she said. “He climbs into your lap, he would prefer to sit in your lap than lay on the floor. He also sleeps in our bed at night, along with the cat.”