Big dog needed ‘medical intervention’ after bite. But it wasn’t from another dog

A dog in Texas had to be rushed to the vet after he started showing signs of major health decline — but it was a mystery why.

“This 1-year-old pup couldn’t walk and wasn’t eating, making it clear he needed medical intervention quickly! Gentle Nosferatu was brought into Austin Animal Services (AAS) very underweight and more concerningly, with a large gaping wound on the inside of his left hind leg,” Austin Pets Alive said in an Oct. 31 Facebook post.

The wound wasn’t from another dog or large mammal.

“Likely, this scary wound was caused by a snake or spider bite and left untreated, allowing it to grow!” the shelter added.

Unfortunately, since the biting culprit wasn’t seen, it would be more difficult to treat.

“Due to the advanced medical attention he required, AAS pled this hound-Labrador mix to APA!’s Medical Triage program. Once in our care, Nosferatu underwent surgery to clean, debride and partially close the wound,” the shelter said.

“The wound’s severity means that Nosferatu will be in recovery for quite some time, with hydrotherapy sessions to clean the wound and frequent bandage changes to keep it protected as it heals.”

The pup kept his spirits up throughout the entire ordeal.

“Through it all — the pain, cleanings and bandage changes, he remains the sweetest boy, giving constant eye contact and happy to sneak a kiss whenever he can,” the shelter said.

“We just know that he’s going to be someone’s very best friend.”

Nosferatu is currently looking for a foster home, so for more information, visit the shelter’s website.

This story was originally published November 4, 2025 at 8:59 AM with the headline "Big dog needed ‘medical intervention’ after bite. But it wasn’t from another dog."