The Calgary Humane Society is investigating a case of puppy abuse, discovered on Kijiji.

A woman found the dog on the website and met up with the owner in a parking lot to pick it up.

The dog was wearing a dog coat at the time of purchase and when the purchaser took the coat off she was horrified at the puppy's condition and took it to the Calgary Humane Society.

The one-year-old Bichon-cross had obviously been neglected and abused. It was rated a one out of nine on a body scale chart.

"One is the lowest rating an animal can receive on a body score. It is clear that the puppy had been neglected for quite some time." said Tammy Mazubert, department head of animal health.

"We are very concerned about this puppy's welfare, and are warning people against purchasing their pets from these unethical sources."

An investigation by Calgary Humane Society Peace Officers discovered that the puppy and his sibling were no stranger to the Kijiji market.

In October of 2010, when experiencing a life change that did not allow her to provide care for the pups, the then owner of the pup and his sibling placed an ad on Kijiji as "free to a good home."

"This pup's situation is just one example of what happens to animals given away ‘free to good homes,'" says Brad Nichols, head of Protection and Investigations at the Calgary Humane Society.

"This case should serve as a serious warning to all pet owners and potential purchasers," says Nichols.

"In this case, a well-intentioned owner tried to re-home her two Bichon-cross puppies. The individual who has allegedly neglected them took the pups for free, claiming to offer them a caring home then turned around to sell the puppies for a profit. The internet and channels like Kijiji provide anonymity to buyers and sellers that makes it a challenge to hold responsible those who mistreat their animals."

The Calgary Humane Society continuing their investigation into this incident and is asking the public to provide any knowledge they may have about a Kijji seller offering bichon-cross puppies for sale.

If you have any information call (403)205 4455 or go to the Calgary Humane Society website.