Sick Puppy Abandoned in Winter Weather Is Nursed Back to Health and Gets a New Name Inspired by a Tough NFL Team

A sick puppy abandoned outside a Michigan animal adoption center has been given a new lease on life — and a new name honoring her home state's NFL team.

According to a Jan. 6 Facebook post from the Grosse Pointe Animal Adoption Society (GPAAS) in Harper Woods, Mich., the dog, identified as a 6-month-old female, "was abandoned at the front door of our new APF building. It was found this morning on just a blanket. By its condition, we think it was there most of the night in the cold."

"I saw what I thought was a deceased dog curled up in a little ball in the entranceway of the building," Corinne Martin, president of the nonprofit, recalled to ABC affiliate WXYZ.

Related: Stray Dog Named Ding Dong Rings Stranger's Doorbell for Help Escaping Winter Weather (Exclusive)

Regarding the animal's physical condition, GPAAS noted in the aforementioned Facebook post that the dog was "covered in blood and couldn't stand up because its feet were so swollen."

Upon finding the pup, the nonprofit immediately transported the canine to the Harper Woods Veterinary Hospital for urgent treatment. GPAAS noted on social media that the dog "will need lots of love and support moving forward."

Later that same day, in a subsequent Facebook post, the shelter updated followers on the puppy's condition, sharing that the dog had been diagnosed with generalized demodectic mange, which causes hair loss and dry, itchy skin. In response, veterinarians prescribed a course of antibiotics. The Harper Woods Veterinary Hospital also told GPAAS that the dog would remain in its care until healed but was expected to make a "full recovery."

Never miss a story — sign up for PEOPLE's free daily newsletter to stay up-to-date on the best of what PEOPLE has to offer​​, from celebrity news to compelling human interest stories.

GPAAS received an outpouring of support on its social media posts about the puppy, prompting the rescue to give the dog's fans a chance to name her. Per WXYZ, the consensus on the new moniker was "Gritty," chosen to honor Michigan's own Detroit Lions and their infamous grit on the playing field.

Related: Big Dog Makes Incredible Recovery with a Little Help and an Impressive Makeover

On Monday, Jan. 13, GPAAS shared a heartwarming update on Gritty. The once-sickly pup is progressing quickly on her recovery journey and has moved into a foster home with experience caring for dogs with special needs.

"She has begun that long road to recovery through antibiotics and medicated baths. Gritty is able to stand up, walk around, and go outside to urinate and poop," the shelter shared. "Her 'Never Give Up' attitude will serve her well in this recovery process. Gritty has a very friendly temperament, which is amazing after all she's been through. Our guess is that she will love to watch the Lions' playoff game this weekend with her foster family."

Those looking to support the Green Pointe Animal Adoption Society's mission can donate here.

Read the original article on People