Injured puppy found on conveyor belt at S.F. dump

San Francisco animal control officials are trying to figure out how a 10-week-old apricot poodle puppy ended up on a recycling conveyor belt at the city dump - severely injured but expected to survive.

The dog, named Gem by city officials, was found on Saturday with bite marks on her neck, lameness in her hind legs and discharge coming from her ears. Le Ellis Brown of San Francisco Animal Care and Control said he's surprised the dog didn't perish during the journey.

"We dubbed her Gem because she's like a diamond in the rough," Brown said. "She's a precious little gem that came from the trash."

Officials believe the dog traveled to the San Francisco Recology transfer station at 501 Tunnel Rd. in a collection truck, and was unloaded along with mounds of trash. Gem then took a trip down a conveyer belt carrying cans, bottles and other recyclables. She was conscious when discovered by Recology staff.

Animal control released photos of the injured dog, looking pensive and alert, with a shaved neck and multiple bloody wounds. Brown said investigators are working with Recology staff, hoping to determine what part of the city Gem may have come from. Officials are urging anyone with information to come forward.

"We're just looking for answers," Brown said. "I've been working here 17 years. This is a first."

Anyone with information is asked to call animal control at (415) 554-9400.