Nizato will be arraigned May 10 at 8:30 a.m. in Bellflower Superior Court.
Named "Courage" by shelter workers, the dog weighed less than 40 pounds, less than half the healthy weight for a German Shepherd.
He was so weak he could not lift his head or swallow.
The German Shepherd Rescue Group of Orange Country offered to pay for the dog's medical care and bills.
And students and faculty at Back Bay High in Newport Beach raised $400 for the dog's care. "Courage" continues to improve and gain weight.
He has gained more than 20 pounds and continues to thrive. Once legal hurdles are cleared, "Courage" will have a permanent home with his foster caretaker, a volunteer with German Shepherd Rescue of Orange County.
