Nigel is an eight-year-old Mastiff mix in Huntington, WV, who needs $1,000 for urgent care.

*The Waggle Foundation is dedicated to helping sick and injured pets regain good health. If you join our FurEver Fund today, Waggle will DOUBLE your first month's donation and apply it directly to Nigel's care. Click the blue donate button and choose the Monthly Donation option.*

Nigel sat in the shelter, hoping someone would save him. But the unsightly dog was overlooked. His skinny body, black, leathery, and hairless skin made many potential adopters move on to the next kennel. He was a poster child for neglect that had gone on for too long.

Rescuers with One by One Animal Advocates had no idea how Nigel had ended up at the shelter in such poor condition. They could only speculate perhaps he had been abandoned when his owner could no longer care for him? Or maybe his family had passed away, leaving him to fend for himself? But they did know he was a diamond in the rough who deserved a break.

"Typical of his breed, Nigel is a gentle giant who seems to crave a human connection," Heather A., with the group, tells Waggle. "He does his best to communicate with his big, soulful eyes and will even reach out a paw to grab your attention as you pass by. A cold, concrete floor wouldn't do for his senior body. Plans were made to send him directly to Proctorville Animal Clinic for a complete workup."

Initially, the veterinarian thought Nigel suffered from hypothyroidism, but blood work came back in the normal range, indicating that Nigel suffered from malnutrition and neglect. It is heartbreaking to think how long he has been on his own, suffering, wondering why this was happening to him. Nigel has a long road to recovery ahead of him, but his rescuers are committed to helping him overcome each hurdle.

"Nigel won over many hearts during his evaluation at Proctorville Animal Clinic," Heather says. "He was in his element as each technician offered treats, ear scratches, and hugs. Nigel has a way of looking at you and leaning into you like he is trying to soak up every human interaction. While it is very sweet on one hand, it also makes us sad as if he is preparing himself for loss all over again."

The nonprofit group wants to provide Nigel with all his medical care, but they need your help. Your donation will let Nigel know there are still people who love him.