A Calgary man has been charged under Alberta's Animal Protection Act for abandoning a dog named Takhara after it developed abnormally large growths on its hindquarters.

"What is concerning in this case, apart from the clear need for medical intervention, was that she was left to fend for herself as a stray," Brad Nichols with the Calgary Humane Society said in a release.

"Despite the suffering Takhara endured, she had a resilient, affectionate disposition. Sadly, due to her condition and a poor prognosis, she was humanely euthanized on the recommendation of a veterinarian."

A photo of the dog's growths is below. Warning: It may be disturbing to some viewers.

The animal, a female pit-bull-type dog, was found running at large in an Abbeydale school yard back in February.

It had several large masses on its haunches that appeared to require veterinary care.

The Humane Society put out a call for help in locating the dog's owner at the time, and Nichols said tips from the public eventually helped locate the man who has now been charged.

He is due in court on Oct. 11.