MONTREAL - The SPCA is offering a $1,000 reward to anyone who can provide information about a shih-tzu that was abandoned at a Harvey's parking lot near the Namur metro station in Côte-des-Neiges.

Penelope, who was named by SPCA employees, is approximately nine-years-old and was found at 9 a.m. on Saturday.

"In addition to her serious skin and eye issues, she is suffering from malnutrition and severe dehydration," the SPCA wrote in a statement.

"She was found wearing a multicolored collar without any identification."

The shih-tzu is in critical condition.

The SPCA has opened an investigation in the hopes of "apprehend[ing] the person responsible for this cruel abandonment."

"The neglect that Penelope endured is heart wrenching," , said Sophie Gaillard, lawyer for the Montreal SPCA's Animal Advocacy Department.

"We are going to do everything in our power to achieve some form of justice for her and we are counting on the public's help to find the person responsible."

If found guilty, the person could face up to five years in prison.

The SPCA is urging anyone with information related to the case to call 514-735-2711 ext. 2230 or e-mail inspection@spca.com.