The frightened animal was discovered Monday near the Food Basics store.
City animal control officer John DeCando tells The Star-Ledger of Newark the puppy's skin was literally hanging off.
Burns covered the animal's back, side and some of its face.
Save the Animal Rescue Team II is seeking money to pay for a skin-grafting operation. Anyone with information on the beagle should call Paterson Animal Control at 973-881-3640 Donations can be made to START II by calling 201-797-8861.