A dog was abandoned in a dumpster in Cumberland County and was facing euthanasia until a rescue group stepped in.
Cumberland County Animal Services said on Facebook earlier this week that it was looking for an animal rescue group to save the pup.
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The shelter said a rescue group was her only option for survival. She was not able to be adopted because she bit her owner after being provoked, according to Cumberland County Animal Services.
"[She] pottied in the house and she bit her owner after being physically disciplined," Cumberland County Animal Services said on Facebook. "After the incident, the owner threw her in the dumpster."
Luckily, Sydney is now safe and sound, thanks to Dochas N Gra Animal Rescue in South Carolina.
Victoria McGonigal, founder of Dochas N Gra Animal Rescue, said she works a lot with Cumberland County Animal Services, usually rescuing Great Pyrenees, medical, senior and hospice care dogs.
'I wasn’t gonna let this poor girl die for no reason'
With only hours left until Sydney was scheduled to be euthanized, McGonigal stepped in.
"I wasn’t gonna let this poor girl die for no reason," she said.
When dogs have a history of being aggressive, she said it's not always their fault.
"You need to find out the whole story," McGonigal said. "There's always a reason.
"It was something that was not in her control... You have to give them a chance."
The good news is Sydney is now in a loving home, with plenty of new siblings and friends.
The group shared a picture of Sydney's new siblings and her big sister, who is "not a fan of people who hurt animals."
McGonigal said the pup is thriving.
"She loves kisses and snuggles," she said.
McGonigal introduced her to the cows and horses at the sanctuary on Wednesday and said she loved it.
Sydney looks pretty cozy at her new home.
For those who want to honor their pledges, you can donate at PayPal.me/dochasngrarescue. You can also directly donate for her vet care by calling Sandy Memorial Hospital at 843-332-2667; tell them you're for calling for Sydney.
It's unclear whether the owner will face any charges.
"We are unable to comment on possible charges for the owner as this is an ongoing investigation," Cumberland County Animal Services told WRAL News.