Two puppies severely infested with vermin were rescued from a basement in a Bronx apartment building last Friday, according to the New York City-based organization that conducted the rescue. The animals were discovered in extremely poor conditions after the building’s newly appointed superintendent found them surrounded by their own urine and feces.

The rescue group, NYC Second Chance Rescue, described the animals’ situation as dire, noting that it remains unclear how the puppies managed to survive for as long as they did. Visual documentation shared by the rescuers revealed the young dogs with patchy, mangy fur and numerous open wounds. The organization reported that the puppies are suffering from multiple infections and are infested with maggots and fleas.

One of the puppies was found in particularly critical condition, with mats of fur so severe that maggots had burrowed beneath the coat and begun to consume the animal’s skin. “He is being eaten alive,” the rescue group stated in a social media post, emphasizing the severity of his suffering. Both dogs now face an extensive recovery process.

According to the new superintendent, the previous building manager left the puppies behind when he was forced to abandon his duties due to a terminal cancer diagnosis. The circumstances surrounding their abandonment remain under investigation, but the rescue organization has expressed deep concern over the neglect and the animals’ prolonged exposure to such harsh conditions.

The rescue team is currently providing medical treatment and care with hopes of rehabilitating the puppies. The group also called attention to the importance of responsible pet ownership and urged the public to remain vigilant in reporting animal neglect.