Local dog believed to have been intentionally set on fire, recovering at MADACC

MILWAUKEE (CBS 58) --A local animal shelter is taking care of a dog they believe was intentionally set on fire.

Milwaukee Area Domestic Control Commission (MADACC) received a dog last week that was covered in burns. The dog, found in the middle of the road on the 3200 Block of North 16th St., was believed to have been hit by a car at first.

"While we don't know exactly what happened, the speculation is that...someone poured lighter fluid on her and set her on fire intentionally," Community Engagement Coordinator for MADACC Kate Hartlund said.

The shelter staff gave her a name that reflects her newfound journey.

"Gemma is the patron saint of healing, so we thought she needed a good name," Hartlund said.

Hartlund said everyone at MADACC has fallen in love with Gemma.

"I can tell you on Friday morning, she was so happy," she said. "All she wants to do is sit in your lap and give you kisses."

Gemma is wearing a cone to keep her from further infecting her wounds. She might lose part, or the entirety of her left ear because of her injuries.

"She'll still be able to hear out that side," MADACC Veterinarian Justin Bergeron said. "She just won't have that cute, floppy ear that goes with most dogs."

Despite all the pain and treatment coming her way, Gemma is now in a safe space, with people ready to nurse her back to health.

"As hard as it is for us to understand how somebody could do this to an animal because we just don't get it, our goal is to get them safe, loved, and cared for," Hartlund said.

Gemma will not be available for adoption any time soon, her recovery is expected to take at least three months.