A black lab that someone tied up and tossed in the International Paper Co. Canal on Brick Chimney Road Monday evening is now being cared for by the St. Frances Animal Center.

The center's director, Wendy Goude, said the lab has been named Darrah and spent this morning at Harborwalk Veterinarian Clinic on Front Street being treated by Dr. Sherri Duncan.

Deputies were dispatched to the canal last night after fishermen saw the dog trying in vain to make it to shore.

Officers were able to rescue the black lab and report it’s mouth was taped and the dog’s legs had been bound together.

At first, deputies thought the dog may have suffered a gunshot wound because of an injury on its head, according to Sheriff’s Office Lt. Michael Nelson. It now appears the dog may have been hit with a blunt object, possibly a hammer, Goude said.

Duncan said she expects Darrah to make a full recovery.

There are no known suspects at this time.

We will have much more on this story in Wednesday's Georgetown Times.