Multiple pets abandoned in the region in recent weeks
PHILADELPHIA (WPVI) -- Three cases of animal abandonment across southeastern Pennsylvania have some shelters pleading with people to seek out help before putting defenseless animals in potentially deadly situations.
Sunday Frodo, a senior Terrier mix, was found by a passerby in Fairless Hills in a plastic bin during Sunday's intense heat.
Frodo, who is blind and deaf, had signs of neglect including matting over his eyes and serious ear infections. He was taken to the Bucks County SPCA.
Just a few days before Frodo was found, the PSPCA discovered a tiny Yorkie mix in a sealed plastic container outside their headquarters in the Hunting Park section of Philadelphia. They named her Gertie.
Gertie also showed serious signs of neglect.
Prior to Gertie's discovery, police found a Pitbull mix they named Thomas tied to the railroad tracks at Darby Station in Delaware County.
All three cases are being investigated and, luckily, all three animals were saved.
"Abandoning an animal is a crime." Cindy Kelly of the Bucks County SPCA said. "We're just so thankful somebody pulled over, stopped and was curious and then did something to help this dog (Frodo)."
There are so many options for people who may hit the point where they can no longer care for an animal.
Kelly says they are willing to waive surrender fees, and the SPCA tries to implement "surrender prevention" methods for pet owners who have hit hard times.
One organization many local shelters seek out is Citizens for a No-Kill Philadelphia. The non-profit focuses on keeping animals in their home with their families.
The Community Pet Help Desk was created to provide resources and assistance to underserved pet owners of Philadelphia.
The Help Desk associates work with pet owners to navigate resources and identify the best solution for them and their pet.
These include the Community Pet Food Pantry, Behavior Assistance Program, Pet-Friendly Housing Resources, Low-Cost Vet Care and Emergency Relief Resources. They also have a pet pantry for low-income pet owners.
"I have to think a good number of people don't set out to do this," Kelly said "... and then there are some where people just don't do right by animals and it's inconceivable to those of us who really love and cherish our pets, but they rely on us, they're dependent."
Frodo still has a long recovery and is not available for adoption yet. There is a $3,000 reward for information that leads to an arrest in his case.
To contact the Community Pet Help Desk email helpdesk@phillynokill.org or call 484-466-2913.
