Houston rescue dog set on fire with accelerant slated to be released from A&M (Photos)

It's hard to forget the heartbreaking photographs of a young, black Labrador retriever who had wandered the streets near the Hobby Airport for several days with second and third degree burns over more than half of his body. The dog was finally picked up by Houston's Bureau of Animal Regulation and Care (BARC) on Feb.20, but his injuries needed specialized help - more than Houston's animal shelter could afford for the dog's treatment.

That's when Scout's Honor Rescue in Houston volunteered to take charge of the Lab's care. The organization was able to get in touch with specialists at Texas A&M College of Veterinary Medicine in College Station where Pier, as the sweet dog was named, has spent a few weeks having bandages changed, a tooth removed and otherwise treated for burns which covered his torso, legs and face.

And now the good news - Pier is scheduled to be neutered this week, and then will be released from Texas A&M and head to a new home and a wonderful new life.

Houston, Texas
29.760450363159 ; -95.369781494141

During all of Pier's treatments which have been documented regularly on his own Facebook page, "Help Save Pier, the Lab who was set on fire," with over 6,300 "likes" of animal supporters following his plight, Pier has never growled, nor shown any negative traits during all of his sometimes painful procedures. In fact, his caretakers say Pier just loves to nuzzle up to everyone.

Pier's medical bills have topped $25,000. Scout's Honor Rescue is hoping donations will continue until the dog's bill is paid.

The dog's miraculous recovery and his incredible forgiving nature to all humans paints an amazing picture of a dog's loyalty and kindness, and perhaps the reason dogs are referred to as man's best friend.

Pier's new human has not been identified by name, however when she heard about Pier, she brought him home-cooked food, toys, and a dog bed. No final decisions have been made however, but everyone is looking forward to ensuring a wonderful future for a dog who deserves a wonderful second chance at life.

If you would like to contribute to Pier's medical fund, please click here.

An animal cruelty investigation continues. If you have any information about Pier please get in touch with Scout's Honor Rescue.

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Cheryl Hanna is a freelance writer living in South Florida. She spends her spare time with Chance and Dakota, two horses rescued from slaughter pens. E-mail her at cdhanna9703@aol.com.

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