Sheriff: 'This will not be tolerated': S.C. woman arrested after emaciated dog found

LAURENS, S.C. (WSET) -- A South Carolina woman has been charged after animal control took a starving dog from her home.

The dog has now been been taken to a rescue group in New York, where he is getting veterinary care.

According to Rescue Dogs Rock NYC, someone passing by the home found the dog, now named 'Champ', and contacted Laurens County Animal Control.

Champ was visibly emaciated and appeared lethargic, they said.

The group said they estimated Champ to be 16-months-old and about 50 pounds, but since he is a mastiff mix, he should be around 110 pounds.

Rescue Dogs Rock NYC is asking for donations toward his care.

Giles Gilmer with Laurens County Animal Control confirmed that Elizabeth James has been charged with animal cruelty and will face a judge in September.

Gilmer said James told investigators Champ belonged to her ex-boyfriend and left him with her.

The Laurens County Sheriff's Office said they have also charged James with ill treatment of animals and a judge set her bond at $15,000 Friday.

"Inhumane treatment of animals will not be tolerated on my watch. No animals should have to go without food an water," Sheriff Don Reynolds said in a news release.

Anyone wishing to donate for Champ's veterinary bills can do so here.