The dog needs to be turned over to a rescue organization where it will be loved and trained. Even if he recovers from the physical injuries, it will take a long time for his spirit to recover — if ever.
The perp needs to be jailed.
The last cocker I rescued came form an abusive situation. He was 7 months old and was kept in a crate almost 24/7. The owner who surrendered said the neighbors complained because the puppy barked and whined. He also said the puppy soiled his bed, well duh! The man left him home alone in the crate from 6 AM until 10 PM.
He grew to love and trust us, housebroke easily but had food issues so was not a dog I would have felt comfortable placing. He lived with us until he died last Jan. I loved him and miss him still. I have also retired from rescue. Burned out, you can’t save them all and it was seriously affecting my feelings toward people.
I have seen such dogs that have been rescued. Some bounce back well. I have seen one German Shepherd that was rescued from a very abusive situation, but is still able to “read” people. Others wind up have trouble trusting other humans. I have seen this in one rescued golden retriever. The owner had several golden retrievers, and this one was particularly out of character for the breed, compared to the rest of his dogs - defensive, showed some definite fear of strangers. I asked the owner if that one was a rescue adoption, he replied that it was.
There is always some degree of training involved, since there is always some degree of psychological damage to the dog.
You are right. This dog needs to be with people who will constantly show him he is loved. He needs attention, stroking, the best comfortable bed and place to call his own. Soothing music when he goes to bed at night...soft, cuddly toys for him to snuggle with, fresh water, good, healthy, nutritous food, mega greetings when the new owners come home, nice rides in the car and a nice big yard to roam. Big hugs from his owners and lots of kisses too. Constant pats and comforting phrases like good dog, I love you over and over, sweet puppy, etc...silly? Yes, but...this dog will respond to these kind and loving phrases every time. I hope and pray the dog is taken from whomeve has him. He doesn’t deserve to have such a precious animal and the dog certainly above all else...deserves better. I hope there is a follow up to this story so that we all know the Golden is being cared for and loved as stated above. I will say a special prayer that he will be OK physically and mentally. Love can go a long way and with it he will learn to trust those he knows truly do love him.