Dogs, especially those that have lived exceptionally tough lives , have the ability to pull at human heartstrings. There is a very sad tale regarding a pooch named Rusty, but the plus side of his ordeal is that he’s getting a second shot at a good life.

Dogs, especially those that have survived exceptionally tough lives, have the ability to pull at human heartstrings.

There is a very sad tale regarding a pooch named Rusty, but the plus side of his ordeal is that he’s getting a second shot at a good life. Rusty is an adult dog, but when he was found curled up and covered in leaves in a backyard earlier this year, he only weighed 17 pounds.

The canine was severely malnourished. His skin was cracked, pockmarked and scabbed. He was also suffering from mange, to the point where no fur existed on his face.

36-year-old Kelly Oyler, who is a foster for the San Antonio based Animal Care Services took the pooch in right away. It didn’t take long for word of his previous neglect to spread online.

Soon, people started sending things to the pooch like a blanket and sweaters, due to his lack of fur. Adoption offers followed.

These days, Rusty is steadily regaining his health. He’s put on some weight and seems to be happy with his foster mom.

Oyler remarked “"If he was able to make it without love from anyone, I knew once he was with me, he was going to make it. But it was all him, he has a strong spirit.”

Reportedly, charges against his former owner are pending.