It was a brutal way to die: surrounded by filth and garbage, trying in vain to claw its way out of the heavy, plastic can.

But that's what happened to a small dog found Thursday by Detroit Dog Rescue. The tiny pooch was still attached to a leash, the group said.

In a Facebook post, Detroit Dog Rescue said it received a call about a dog who was dumped in a rubber tub, then put in a trash can.

The dog was dead, but investigators noticed there was fresh blood around the canine's neck and claw marks inside the bin that indicate he was dumped when he was alive.

The rescue group said in the post that they are "heartbroken" over the discovery.

"We must change the mindset of pet ownership. Pets aren’t property, they are living, breathing, and loving creatures. This isn’t just a government and administrative issue, this is a community awareness and education issue.

"Rest In Peace sweet, sweet pup. The cutest tiny black dog with little white paw tips and crooked ears. You were so tiny and skinny and helpless. We wish we had the chance to love you. Fly high over the rainbow bridge. We promise we’re trying to make Detroit better."

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