SPCA: Puppy found with severely lacerated neck in Upper Darby

WARNING: Article contains graphic photos

Clover is pictured after her surgery to treat a severely lacerated neck. The puppy was found in an Upper Darby home with a large gash on her neck, an injury believed to be caused by chewing herself out from a cable she was tied to a bannister with.
Delco SPCA/Source

The Delaware County Society for Prevention of Cruelty to Animals (SPCA) says its caring for a 6-month-old dog discovered inside a home suffering from a "severely lacerated neck."

The organization said Monday the female Shepherd-Pit Bull Terrier mix, who they've named Clover, is believed to have been tied to a banister by a cable wire for 3-4 weeks in the Upper Darby home on Clover Lane where she was found.

Clover was able to chew herself out, according to the SPCA, causing the lacerations in the process.

Photos show Clover's gruesome injuries shortly after she was saved by Humane Society Police Officer Ron Riggle, who took the puppy to the Delco SPCA after authorities were contacted by the property manager.

WARNING: Photos are extremely graphic.


Delco SPCA/SourceClover is pictured after being discovered with a severely lacerated neck. The puppy was found in an Upper Darby home with a large gash on her neck, an injury believed to be caused by chewing herself out from a cable she was tied to a bannister with.

Delco SPCA/SourceClover is pictured after being discovered with a severely lacerated neck. The puppy was found in an Upper Darby home with a large gash on her neck, an injury believed to be caused by chewing herself out from a cable she was tied to a bannister with.


The dog had emergency surgery to clean and remove diseased tissue from her deep cut, but will need additional follow-up procedures to repair neck muscles and her care is expected to cost more than $3,000.

Police are investigating to try to prosecute the person responsible for Clover's condition while the Delco SPCA is asking for donations to help pay for Clover's recovery.

Donations can be made online here or mailed to 555 Sandy Bank Road, Media, PA 19063.