**GRAPHIC IMAGE WARNING**

The tiny Maltipoo, known by rescuers as Grove, is on the mend and looking for a fresh start after a harrowing ordeal left her covered in hundreds of ticks.

Believed to be about 2 years old, the small white dog was found last week in dire condition and rushed to a local veterinarian, where it took hours to remove the parasites.

“They were literally eating her alive,” said the rescuer who brought her in. The rescuer said that she was so weak, but you could see she still wanted to fight.

Veterinarians gave her fluids and ran bloodwork to assess the toll the infestation had taken on her health. Now safe and healing, the pup is showing signs of her sweet, gentle personality.

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A bit shy around people at first, she quickly warms up and becomes a cuddly companion. She also enjoys the company of other dogs and has a charming, bouncy gait that one rescuer described as “like a baby Clydesdale.”

The Maltipoo is now in foster care while she continues to regain her strength and awaits a permanent home.

To adopt Grove or see other available dogs, visit Mell’s Mutts.

Prospective adopters must submit an adoption application for review to ensure the best match for each pup.