Scotch, a paralyzed pit bull, fought his way out of darkness using only his front legs after being found under an abandoned house.

Animal rescuers discovered Scotch at the end of a cobblestone street lined with other deserted homes. Even in the pitch black, their spotlights revealed the brown pit bull huddled beneath the house.

Watch the video at the end.

When Donna, one of the rescuers, cautiously approached, Scotch growled softly, backing into a corner. But the offer of a treat changed everything.

As soon as Donna tossed a piece of food his way, Scotch’s demeanor shifted, and he began to drag himself forward using only his front legs.

It was then that Donna realized Scotch’s hind legs were paralyzed.

“He was so hungry that he lunged at every piece of food I gave him,” Donna shared on the Stray Rescue of St. Louis website.

“We were concerned about how long this poor dog had been trapped, alone and scared.” After discussing options, the rescuers decided that coaxing him with food would be the least stressful way to help him.

Scotch, desperate for the food, slowly inched forward, his frail body no match for his hunger. When Donna reached the entrance of the kennel, she paused, uncertain about what might happen next. Scotch looked at them once more as if making a choice and decided to trust his rescuers.

As he emerged, Donna saw the full extent of Scotch’s condition. He was severely underweight, and his hind legs were covered in open sores from dragging himself across the dirt.

Carefully, the rescuers used a blanket to lift him into the car. Scotch, now safe in an air-conditioned vehicle, gazed up at them with gratitude.

“His eyes said it all. He knew we were there to help,” Donna explained.

Though Scotch’s rescue was heartbreaking, his resilience and bravery stood out. The team remains hopeful for his recovery and is doing everything possible to give this deserving dog the chance at a better life.

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