It is unfortunately common to encounter abandoned dogs or puppies on the streets, a reality that many rescuers, dog lovers, and animal control officers have faced for years. However, a recent case in New Bern, North Carolina, proves that even familiar situations can surprise us. This particular instance was marked by a shocking discovery – a note left beside an abandoned puppy.
“Please Take Me”
When a compassionate man discovered the abandoned puppy in a cage near the Books-A-Million in New Bern, he immediately contacted New Bern Animal Control. Officers rushed to the scene, and what they found left them speechless. “To leave an animal like that on the side of the road, especially in the summer heat…with no water in the cage, just a bag of food, is simply wrong,” stated New Bern Animal Control Officer Kevin Bahr in an interview with WITN.
However, the real shock came when they encountered the note inside the cage where the twelve-week-old puppy was left. It read: “Please take me… I’m a 12-week hound. I don’t bite. Take great care of him. He has food with him.”
While it might seem that the owner had genuine intentions, officers and local residents were baffled as to why anyone would abandon a puppy in such a manner. “I can’t understand why someone would just leave a puppy…especially in a cage. There are services available to help with unwanted animals. This is just reckless, and I hope they find the perpetrator,” shared New Bern resident Matthew Nelson.
Fortunately, these caring individuals quickly devised a plan for the puppy, transferring him to Craven-Pamlico Animal Services, where he will remain until he finds a loving forever home.
Illegal Action
After rescuing the dog and taking him to the shelter, officers posted about the incident on their official Facebook page, the Craven County Sheriff’s Office – Animal Protective Services. They emphasized that abandoning an animal is illegal, regardless of the circumstances. “Under NCGS 14-361.1, abandoning an animal is against the law and can lead to fines of up to $1,000,” they clarified in a Facebook post.
The community’s response was one of outrage. One user commented, “People never fail to disappoint!!” while another added, “How can someone sleep at night after abandoning a puppy like that? I have five dogs, and they are my family!” A third user lamented, “What a cute dog! Poor guy😥”.
Thanks to the compassion of others, this puppy is now safe and awaiting a better future with a loving family who will care for him unconditionally. In light of this incident, the officers issued a warning to any pet owners considering similar actions. “While we understand that circumstances differ, leaving a dog exposed to potential harm demonstrates a worrying lack of concern for its well-being,” they emphasized. “Such behavior will not be tolerated in Craven County.”
