Dave Bautista has adopted a three-month-old rescue puppy after it was neglected, abused, and left needing surgery.
Last week, the pooch was found with a metal chain embedded in her neck and immediately taken to the Humane Society of Tampa Bay.
The young canine, who was nicknamed Sage, had to undergo emergency surgery in order to have the chain removed from her neck.
The Facebook account for the Humane Society of Tampa Bay explained: “A Good Samaritan was driving on the way home, and saw Sage eating garbage at The Home Cemetery. She stopped and Sage immediately ran up to her.
“She put Sage in the car and rushed over to HSTB. Sage is only 3-months-old. She is very sweet and friendly. Even though she is in immense pain Sage was wagging her tail on the exam table while our veterinarian and vet techs were examining her.
“In addition to the chain, we noticed that Sage has skin issues and overgrown nails. We can't imagine who would do this to her.”
As reported by Fox 13 News, WWE legend Dave Bautista saw the post and felt for the mistreated pup.
The animal lover then took to Instagram to offer a $5000 reward to help catch the individual who neglected the dog.
Bautista wrote alongside a snap of the dog in question: “ATTN Tampa Bay: I will personally hand $5000 cash to the person who gives information leading to the arrest and conviction of the sick piece of s*** responsible for this.
“In addition @humanesocietytampabay is also offering $1500 .If you know anything please contact @humanesocietytampabay or @safek9”
In a follow-up video, the wrestler-turned-actor shared some incredible news - that he was now Sage’s guardian and... Sage now goes by Penny!
He told his 3.6 million followers in an Instagram video posted on Friday, September 24: “The good news is, the puppy you know as Sage actually became Penny Bautista. So I’d like to introduce you to the newest member of my family … healing up, nice, and recovered.
“She is now a Bautista and she will never be abused again a day in her life. She is about to live her best puppy life ever … and she has her forever home.”
