Emaciated dog Spartan surrendered by owners undergoing risky surgery

DENVER — The badly emaciated dog surrendered to a local rescue last week has battled to gain several pounds, but is now undergoing surgery.

The dog was given the name Spartan by Ho-Bo Care rescue in Denver after its owners gave him up, claiming he had been sick and they couldn't afford medical bills. 

Volunteers say they're concerned the dog wasn't just sick, but neglected by owners. They say he could potentially have been starving for weeks or a month. 

In an update released on Tuesday, caregivers said Spartan had to undergo surgery to have an obstruction in the dog's bowels removed. 

The surgery is risky due to the dog's emaciated state, and volunteers say they're praying to see the dog through the event. 

Denver7 will follow the story and update this page with details once the surgery is complete. Donations for Spartan's care can be submitted here.