VALDOSTA, Ga. — A gray and white pitbull puppy is safe thanks to 68-year-old Cheryl Bell, who recently rescued her from the bushes.

The Valdosta resident said she was taking Oreo, her 11-year-old Boston terrier, outside when she noticed the puppy.

“I went up and down the street asking if it was anybody’s … nobody wanted to claim her,” Bell said.

Lucky, a name given to the puppy by Bell, began crying, and Bell said she started crying while holding her. She immediately gave Lucky food and water before taking her to Northside Animal Hospital.

There it was discovered that both of Lucky’s front legs were broken and her left jaw was broken.

Veterinarian Dr. Myron Graham confirmed the dog was also malnourished, flea-infested and had diarrhea. He also said she had internal parasites.

“If you’re not going to take care of an animal, then why do you even have it,” Bell said. “Why would someone abuse a baby like that. It just makes no sense to me.”

Due to her broken legs and jaw, Graham surmised she might’ve been hit by a car or possibly endured trauma.

He said the puppy is being treated for pain, but is doing fine. He said she’s walking, responding well to treatment and medicine and is eating well.

“She’s a very sweet little dog,” he said. “She’s just a joy in life for sure.”

A home has already been found for Lucky, Graham said. The dog is expected to be released soon from Northside.

Amanda Usher is a reporter at The Valdosta Daily Times. She can be contacted at 229-244-3400 ext.1274.