(Parker County Sheriff's Office photo)

WEATHERFORD (July 12, 2012)--Private donors have contributed $35,000 for a reward for information leading to the arrest, prosecution and conviction of the person responsible for the torture of a dog that was found Tuesday wandering along a remote Texas county road with its muzzle taped shut on her severely swollen tongue.

The dog was overheated, wandering in circles and bleeding from five severe, intentional cuts through her muscles, the Parker County Sheriff’s Office said.

“This is horrendous,” Parker County Sheriff Larry Fowler said.

“I can’t imagine what would bring a person to such an evil act. We are fortunate to have found her when we did. Our investigators have seen some pretty terrible things in their careers, but this case is deeply disturbing and leaves us shocked,” he said.

The Texas Humane Alliance is adding $25,000 to a $10,000 reward already offered in the torture of the 3- to 4-year-old female pug mix that caregivers have named Hope.

The dog was rescued Tuesday by Parker County Animal Control workers and volunteers about 10 miles southeast of Weatherford, about 25 miles west of Fort Worth.

A county animal control officer said the dog was overheated and dehydrated when found and needed 100 stitches to close five deep lacerations.

The dog was recovering Thursday at a Weatherford clinic.

“She is truly inspirational and she amazes us each day,” veterinary technician Rhonda Sears said.

Tips may be submitted through the Parker County Crime Stoppers hotline at (817) 599-5555.