This morning when I came into work here at the Humane League the first thing I saw was a scared, dirty, matted dog hiding under a bench in our front office.

From Humane League of Lancaster County

A note on the door said that he "belongs with the other two dogs in the exam room. See note on cage." Following this "treasure hunt," so to speak, I went into the exam room and found two more small dogs huddled together. I read the note, talked to another employee, and began putting the pieces together.

When one of our veterinary technicians arrived this morning, she had found the three dogs stuffed into a carrier together sitting in the parking lot. A note was left, presumably from the former owner, which included the dogs names, ages, breeds, and a plea to "find them a good home." The brief note went on to indicate that the owner had lost his or her job and could no longer care for the dogs.

Obviously, the owner was in a tough situation. However, I can't help but question why this person made the choice to leave the dogs in our parking lot. We would have gladly accepted the dogs today when we opened, when there were staff available to care for the dogs, to give them food and water and a blanket. They did not have to be left outside. Although we ask for a donation when animals are surrendered, it is not required and there is no fee.

Perhaps, the owner did not want to be questioned about the condition the dogs were in. Lenny, the Bichon, (pictured above) has a laceration on his back and the fur on his back end is matted and caked with feces. All three dogs are crawling with fleas and have skin irritations and hair loss. Whatever the circumstances, it is clear that these dogs were not being properly cared for for some time.

I'm sorry that this pet owner did not come to us for help sooner. The Humane League is here to help, whether that means passing along donated flea shampoo or an extra bag of food, or giving advice on behavior issues with your pet. If you or someone you know is having trouble caring for an animal or can no longer keep their pets, please call the Humane League at (717) 393-6551. While we cannot fix every problem and our resources are limited, we are committed to doing what we can to help owners and their pets stay together!

Lenny, Butch, and Ivy are not quite ready for adoption yet. They need to be examined by our veterinarian and evaluated by our staff. At this point, we are not sure if their needs will best be served by being placed up for adoption, going into a foster home, or being transferred to a rescue. If you would like more information about these dogs should they become available for adoption, please email Becki at bgotshall@humaneleague.com.

If you would like to make a donation to the League or become a Humane League member and help us provide care for animals like Lenny, Butch, and Ivy, please click here.

Reprinted with permission
Image courtesy of the Humane League
Posted by Nicole, PA Team Leader