Caitlyn, Dog With Muzzle Taped Shut, Update: Arrest Made For Alleged Animal Abuser [VIDEO]

Caitlyn was found last week in dire straits. A local resident found the 15-month old Chocolate Staffordshire Bull Terrier mix with her muzzle taped shut. The electrical tape used by the individual caused severe damage to Caitlyn's jaw and tongue. Caitlyn was taken to the Charleston Animal Society where she has undergone several treatments. As she recovers, the alleged animal abuser was arrested Monday night.

William Leonard Dodson was taken into custody Monday night in North Charleston, South Carolina, the Post and Courier reported. He was charged with ill treatment of an animal and appeared in court for a bond hearing Tuesday. "We are supportive of the NCPD's investigation and hope justice will be served in this case. We are eager for whomever committed this crime to be held accountable and punished to the fullest extent of the law, which continues to be one of the nation's weakest," the Charleston Animal Society said in a statement.

The Charleston Animal Society first described Caitlyn's condition May 28 on Facebook. The post received close to 7,000 likes and over 7,000 comments. The veterinarians estimated Caitlyn had her muzzle taped for 36 to 48 hours. "This is the most malicious case of animal abuse I have seen in my entire career,” said Aldwin Roman, Charleston Animal Society Director of Anti-Cruelty & Outreach, said in the post. “To leave this dog in pain, unable to eat or drink and to now leave her in the position where her life is at stake because she may lose her tongue is heartbreaking."

Caitlyn was transferred to a specialty facility where she underwent hyperbaric treatments and received IV fluids and antibiotics to treat her wounds. Caitlyn even underwent laser therapy to save more of her tongue. She is currently eating normal food after having minor surgery on her lip. The veterinarians were waiting to see how she recovered before scheduling a surgical procedure for her tongue.