Sadly, it is not shocking to encounter a forsaken dog or puppy on the streets recently. This is a scenario that rescuers, canine enthusiasts, and animal control officers have long been accustomed to.
Nevertheless, the recent incident of discovering a neglected dog in New Bern, North Carolina, illustrates that surprises can still occur. What makes this case distinct from the majority is the message found beside the abandoned pup.
This message elicited astonishment, but also frustration among animal control personnel and many others.
“Please Take Me”
A compassionate gentleman discovered an abandoned puppy in a crate near the Books-A-Million parking area in New Bern, North Carolina, and promptly contacted New Bern Animal Control.
Officers swiftly proceeded to the location, and upon their arrival, the sight they encountered left them bewildered.
“To leave an animal like that on the roadside, especially during summer in such heat… there was no water in the crate, just a bag of food. It’s simply not acceptable,” remarked New Bern Animal Control Officer, Kevin Bahr, in an interview with WITN.
Yet, what truly astonished him and his peers was the note they discovered in the crate where this twelve-week-old puppy was held.
“Please take me… I’m a 12-week hound. I don’t bite. Please take good care of him. He has food with him,” the note stated.
Although it may appear initially that the owner had noble intentions, the officers still found it incomprehensible how anyone could abandon their puppy on the streets in such a manner. Numerous locals were equally incredulous.
“I can’t fathom why anyone would simply desert a puppy… especially in a crate. We have services available, you know, to handle unwanted animals. It’s just irresponsible… I hope they track down the individual responsible for this,” expressed New Bern resident Matthew Nelson.
Regardless of the situation, these kind-hearted individuals quickly devised a plan for the unfortunate puppy. They relocated him to Craven-Pamlico Animal Services, where he will remain until he is adopted into a loving home.
Illegal Action
Promptly after discovering the dog and bringing him to the shelter, the officers issued a statement via their official Facebook account, the Craven County Sheriff’s Office – Animal Protective Services.
They emphasized that the act of abandoning an animal is unlawful regardless of the circumstances. “It is vital to note that under NCGS 14-361.1, abandoning an animal is illegal and can result in penalties of up to $1,000,” they stated in the Facebook post.
Respondents on Facebook who engaged with this post were also enraged.
One individual remarked that “People never cease to let me down!!” while another added: “Some individuals who abandon in such a manner, I don’t understand how they can sleep at night. I have five and they are my companions and I consider them family!”
The third sadly commented: “What an adorable dog! Poor little guy😥”
Fortunately, due to the generosity of kind individuals, this puppy is now secure and awaiting brighter days along with a family that will cherish and care for him irrespective of the circumstances.
Ultimately, using this puppy as an example, the officers cautioned all other pet owners who may have similar thoughts.
“While we recognize that everyone’s situations may vary, leaving a dog where anyone could take him indicates a lack of concern for his welfare,” they stated. “There is no justification or acceptance for this conduct in Craven County.”