YOUNGSTOWN, Ohio - Animal Charity of Ohio says it has contacted the most recent owner of a dog that was found without a tongue and with lacerations on his face.

Bubbles, as the dog has become known to the staff of Animal Charity, was brought in after wandering onto the porch of a Youngstown home on Sunday.

At first, it was believed that the dog's tongue had been cut out and that he may have been used to train fighting dogs.

A veterinarian who later performed an examination, says she doubts that an animal could survive such a traumatic injury and surmises that Bubbles may have been born without a tongue.

According to Animal Charity of Ohio Board President Mary Louk, an investigation determined that Bubbles' first owner left the dog in the care of another person when he went to prison six months ago.

Animal Charity says investigators have been in contact with the most recent person who was caring for Bubbles. However, investigators have not been able to determine who had the dog in the time between the first and third caretaker, who was released from jail four months ago.

Animal Charity says none of the previous owners are taking responsibility for Bubbles' current condition.

“Unfortunately, in this case, the victim can't speak for himself,” said Louk.

Bubbles' most recent owner legally signed him over to the Animal Charity.

The charity's humane division is attempting to find out what sort of conditions caused Bubbles to suffer from several medical issues.

Louk says examiners have determined the pit bull has heart worms, an enlarged heart, congested lungs, ear mites, intestinal parasites, and ticks.

Bubbles is scheduled to see a soft tissue specialist next week for further examination.

According to Animal Charity, an anonymous donor is paying the cost of treating the dog for heart worms, but treatment can't begin until Bubbles finds a foster home.

Because the dog has a more advanced, yet treatable heart worm condition, he will need a home very specific to his needs.

The ideal foster home for Bubbles, according to Animal Charity, is one that's quiet and without another dog because his treatment requires a low stress environment.

Louk says Bubbles will follow a strict schedule of rest for the duration of his treatment, which could take up to five months, possibly more.

Currently, Animal Charity says Bubbles is doing well despite his condition.

The organization says Bubbles is slightly underweight, but can eat and drink even without a tongue.

The dog tips his head back to swallow food and now drinks water from a large bucket.

Louk says supporters have donated cans of food for Bubbles.

According to Louk, the dog is friendly toward staff and has created no issues for anyone, however he has displayed some fear issues with stairs.

If he's feeling well enough, Louk says Bubbles will make an appearance at an Animal Charity event on Friday.

Louk says the public can meet Bubbles from 6-9 p.m. at Animal Charity's Canfield location at 525 West Main Street.

The event is a lock in to help raise funds for the shelter.

Animal Charity can be contacted at (330) 788-1064.