New Jersey: Little dog thrown from car in Paterson has died

NEW JERSEY -- A malnourished and emaciated little shih tzu dog that was thrown out of a moving car on Saturday died overnight Friday at the North Jersey animal hospital where it had been receiving 24-hour care.

The dog, which the staff at Ramapo-Bergen Animal Shelter had named Grant, had to receive a blood transfusion. His urine and feces-matted fur had to be completely shaved.

Days before his death, Grant was unable to stand but still managed to show affection.

Grant was receiving care at Oradell Animal Hospital and veterinarians estimated that it would have taken weeks for him to recover.

Authorities tracked the suspected vehicle but were not sure who was driving. The vehicle is registered to an older woman who is in a rehab facility, officials said.

Anyone found guilty of this kind of animal abuse could face a jail sentence and thousands in fines, the Paterson animal control officer told New Jersey 101.5 earlier this week.

The Ramapo-Bergen Animal Shelter raised more than $18,600 from 541 people to help pay for Grant’s care.

From the GoFundMe page:
It is with the heaviest of hearts that we bring you this very sad news.

Our sweet Grant passed away early this morning from multiple complications of severe starvation and neglect.

This is despite the best efforts of the RBARI and Oradell teams to save his life. This dog was a fighter to the very end - but ultimately, the consequences of the brutal abuse and suspected chronic neglect he suffered was too much for his little body to overcome.

His case is under active investigation and will be pursued to the fullest extent of existing laws. If you see animal abuse or neglect, speak up and contact the authorities: you may well save a life and prevent needless suffering.

Our most heartfelt thanks go out to officer John DeCando of Paterson Animal Control for reaching out to us immediately when he was alerted to Grant being thrown from the car, the bystander who chose not to turn her head on a crime against an innocent dog..the staff of Oradell Animal Hospital for their love and care ...and the reporters and news organizations that spread Grant's story.

Last but certainly not least to you all...our extended RBARI family for opening your hearts and for the support you have so generously showered on our dear Grant.

Our fight for Grant and his memory is not over. We will keep you all updated on any and all developments in our efforts to make sure that justice is served.

Our hearts are collectively broken. Thank you so much for caring. ❤️

Rest In Peace our sweet boy. We will never forget you.

(NJ1015 - Nov 4, 2016)