A severely malnourished dog was found abandoned in Acushnet last week and now Mattapoisett Animal Control officials are searching for the animal's owner.

According to news reports, the 2-year-old French mastiff was found digging in garbage cans. Authorities noted the animal, now known as Braxton, weighed 97 pounds, which is half the weight of what a healthy French mastiff his age should weigh.

He was found without identifying tags.

A foster family is now caring for Braxton.

Officials urge anyone with knowledge about Braxton or the previous owner to call Mattapoisett Animal Control at 508-758-4100 ext. 6.

Sippican Week will update this story as more information becomes available.