A stray dog has gone viral this week after his heartbreaking story left many on the internet in tears.
Warning: This story is guaranteed to pull on your heartstrings.
Despite being man's best friend...
Dogs are sadly one of the biggest victims of abuse and neglect.
They are one of the world's most popular household pets.
But for some completely unknown reason, people have been known to inflict all kinds of horrors on pups.
It's unknown how many animals are abused every year...
But what is known is that animal abuse and neglect have long been problems here in the States.
Thousands of animals suffer and lose their lives at the hands of careless and ignorant individuals...
Whose lack of humanity proves fatal to some innocent pups.
Luckily, there is a light at the end of the tunnel...
Millions of people around the world stand firmly against animal abuse.
There are endless animal organizations and charities out there that come together to protect our furry friends.
For which dogs and humans alike can be truly thankful!
A fresh start for the unfortunate pets...
These organizations and charities rescue animals in danger and animals that are injured from abuse.
However, this doesn't magically fix the years of abuse.
Abused and neglected dogs show certain signs of having been hurt.
According to a study conducted by a team at Best Friends Animal Society, dogs that have fallen victim to abuse and neglect are more likely to show behavioral traits.
These include fearfulness, aggression towards people and other dogs, and hyperactivity.
Alongside persistent barking, and bizarre and repetitive behaviors such as digging, spinning in circles, and hoarding.
These behaviors can make a dog dangerous...
In some cases, abused dogs have no hope of trusting humans again, which makes them aggressive and unsafe to have in a family home.
Of course, this is not their fault, but it means that many families can't risk homing these poor pups.
This sadly often results in euthanasia, which is always a last resort when it comes to caring for neglected animals.
This is why the kindness of strangers is of the utmost importance...
Because dogs who have been neglected or abused will need lots of rehabilitation and, most importantly, patience, before they can be adopted.
And the latest story of an abandoned pooch?
Well, it's bittersweet. You might want to get your tissues at the ready...
Louis was dropped off at the Helen Woodward Animal Center in Rancho Santa Fe, California.
And he'd really been through the wars.
Louis had developed an eye infection in December...
And, instead of treating the infections, his owners had opted to fully remove Louis' eyes.
But it's clear that the owners hadn't thought this plan through...
As they struggled to adapt to life with a blind pet, and subsequently surrendered their dog to the shelter.
"When people get their pets for free off of Craigslist, they don't seem to realize that pets come with responsibilities and a monthly expense for their caretaking, including medical care."
"In turn, these pets will provide their owners with unparalleled love. They pay it back tenfold. It's just devastating to see an animal treated the way Louis was treated," the shelter said in a statement.
"Louis is extraordinary. He really suffered at the hands of his former owners but he shows no malice towards humankind. He is ready to love the perfect family and he certainly deserves one."
If you're interested in adopting this special boy, you can apply here.