This is the sort of story that will make you believe in miracles.
This poor puppy was found wrapped in a garbage bag and chucked down a rubbish disposal chute.
Before that, his cruel owner had tied him to a railing and left him there to starve for seven days.
When he was brought in to Garden State Veterinary Services in New Jersey, his skin was stretched across his skeleton, he was unresponsive and seemed destined to die.
Nobody thought he would last the night. But the brave little dog found some source of inner strength and, somehow, he survived.
They named him Patrick since he was discovered the day before St. Patrick's Day, but, at just 19 pounds and with a body temperature so low it didn't register on thermometers, his chances for survival were slim.
According to The Huffington Post, the little dog had to have a hairball removed from his stomach before he could even eat again.
But the skinny puppy was trying his hardest to stay alive - and everyone who met him was touched by his story.
So, despite the fact the horrific abuse he had suffered left him fearful of humans, little Patrick started to trust people more and more - and, slowly, his weight crept back up.
And, more importantly, he learned to trust humans again.
After the little dog reached a healthy weight - and had been reintroduced to life with people again, Patricia Smillie-Scavelli, the hospital's administrator, adopted him - and is desperate to give him the forever-home he's always wanted.
Speaking to Irish Central, she said: “He really gives love.
“He climbs into your lap, he would prefer to sit in your lap than lay on the floor. He also sleeps in our bed at night, along with the cat.”
It took a year, but he finally reached full health - weighing in at 50 pounds. And, while he's still timid, he loves snuggling up to people for a dog biscuit.
His former owner is being charged with neglect and abandonment and is set to appear in court on charges of animal cruelty.
But Patrick is a survivor. And, thanks to the amazing people at Garden State Veterinary Services, he is looking forward to a long and healthy life.
Follow his story on Facebook now.
If you were shocked by Patrick's story, why not visit the RSPCA and donate some money into helping lost and abandoned animals right here in the UK.