Watch CBS News

Pit Bull Puppy Thrown From Moving Car On L.I. Finds New Family

WEST ISLIP, N.Y. (CBSNewYork) -- The pit bull puppy that was thrown out of a moving vehicle on Long Island has found a new home.

The Veterinary Medical Center of Long Island received more than 100 applications from people hoping to adopt Joey.

His new family will be introduced at the Town of Islip Adopt-a-thon on Oct. 13.

The 4-month-old puppy suffered a broken neck and was in critical condition when he was found in a black plastic bag at the closed Pilgrim Psychiatric Center near the Sagtikos Parkway in Brentwood in August.

Joey was in such poor shape that vets feared he wouldn't make it.

"We even considered euthanasia at that point because we were worried about him suffering and he couldn't move any of his legs," Dr. Lynda Loudon told WCBS 880 earlier this month. "He was completely paralyzed but he wagged his tail so we wanted to give him a chance. We saw that he was a fighter and he's come a long way."

In addition to his injuries, vets said Joey was malnourished and underweight, weighing just 10 pounds when he was brought in. A healthy pit bull puppy his age would weigh at least 15 pounds.

After six weeks of medical care and physical therapy, Joey has grown to a healthy 21 pounds.

The vet hospital has been tracking Joey's progress on its official Facebook page, posting photos and videos showing Joey grow from starved and broken to playful and happy.

Over $40,000 has been donated for Joey's care and more than $25,000 has been raised for information leading to the conviction of Joey's abuser.

Supporters will get a chance to meet Joey at a Fan Appreciation Day on October 7. The event will be held at the Veterinary Medical Center of Long Island from 1 p.m. to 4 p.m.

View CBS News In
CBS News App Open
Chrome Safari Continue
Be the first to know
Get browser notifications for breaking news, live events, and exclusive reporting.