HOUSTON – The animal rescue group behind a viral photo of a stray dog hugging a toy explained why volunteers didn’t take in the pet.

The Forgotten Dogs of the Fifth Ward is a collection of 15 volunteers determined to save abused and abandoned animals.

“It hurts my soul,” said Kelle Mann Davis, president of the group. “I cannot fathom how people can do the things they do to animals.”

In five years, Davis’ group rescued close to 900 dogs in Houston’s Fifth Ward. Most, waiting on adoption, live on five acres north of Houston. Space is limited so the group only saves dogs in dire need.

Still, volunteers roam the neighborhood feeding 30-70 strays each day, Davis said.

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That’s how photographer Yvette Holzbach captured the image now gone viral. The dog was cuddling a toy on the sidewalk in front of house.

“The dog was well fed,” Davis said. “The dog had no skin problems. The dog was in good shape. We typically do not pick up dogs that are in good shape because they’re probably owned.”

Encouraged by comments online, some critical of the group for not saving the dog, Davis’ group tracked down the dog’s owner.

He is an 89-year-old known as Mr. Calvin. He was not able to talk with KHOU 11 News Monday night; however, Mr. Calvin told volunteers that he, too, rescues strays and owns 20 dogs.

The one in the viral photo wouldn’t stay behind Mr. Calvin’s fence and has been missing for two weeks, Davis said.

“So, we have started a relationship with Mr. Calvin,” Davis said.

Her group is trying to help him as best they can, but Forgotten Dogs of the Fifth Ward needs a hand, too. The photo brought offers from pet rescue and adoption agencies outside of Texas, but without a van, Davis can’t send any dogs.

While they wait for assistance, the group’s mission remains the same.