An animal rescue group is seeking the public’s help in providing medical care for a dog found badly burned and malnourished in a town in the Florida Panhandle.

Animal control found the dog wandering last week in a neighborhood in Crestview, Fla. and brought it to The Rescued Rescuers: Dachshunds and Friends of the Emerald Coast, the rescue group said.

The dog, which they have named “Gouda,” had burns and open wounds over about 80% of his body, according to the group.

“We are certain he was left in a crate entirely too small to where he couldn’t get out of his own sloshing urine and feces,” the group posted to its Facebook page, adding that Gouda suffered “urine burns and open wounds on 80% of his little body.”

In addition to receiving treatment from Friendship Veterinary Hospital in Fort Walton, Fla., Gouda has been placed in the care of one of the rescue group’s most experienced foster parents, Michelle Curry. Curry told WEAR in Pensacola it was obvious he had been lying in his own waste for an extended period of time, because “he had lines just where the fur didn’t grow anymore.”

The group said when Gouda was brought to their care, the worst part was “he had no light in his eyes” and the group’s treasurer said it was the worst case she had seen in her three years with the group.

Despite his extensive injuries, the prognosis for Gouda is good, with the rescue group calling him its “Christmas Miracle.” The veterinary hospital has told the rescue group Gouda can recover if he continues to eat, although his recovery is expected to take months.

“We’ll never know the extent of his abuse,” the group wrote, “BUT, WE KNOW THE BAD DAYS ARE BEHIND HIM!!” And he’s going to know only love, compassion and comfort the rest of his days!”

Gouda’s recovery and rehabilitation, however, will cost the group several thousands of dollars. Despite a loyal support group, the rescue group says it is about $8,000 down for 2023 and Gouda’s recovery will probably cost about $7,500.

Those willing to help are asked to make a donation through the Rescued Rescuers PayPal account.