Left to suffer in NJ heat: Two abandoned dogs spark outrage as owner is identified

🐶 Two emaciated dogs were found tied to a bench outside the Monmouth County SPCA during New Jersey's dangerous heatwave.
🚔 Eatontown police identified the dogs' owner, and the abandonment case is now under investigation.
❤️ The rescued bulldog and chihuahua are receiving medical care as adoption and foster interest pours in.

EATONTOWN — Someone left an elderly bulldog and a tiny chihuahua tied to a bench outside an animal shelter in the middle of the night during one of New Jersey's hottest weeks of the year, forcing staff to rescue two frightened dogs that had been left to fend for themselves.

Now, authorities say they know who owned the animals, and the investigation into the abandonment is continuing as both dogs recover under the care of the Monmouth County SPCA.

Dogs rescued outside Monmouth County SPCA during dangerous heat

The dogs were discovered tied to a bench outside the Monmouth County SPCA in Eatontown "in the pitch black of night" on July 2, according to the shelter.

"They were scared and confused, but despite everything they'd been through, they were incredibly sweet, and grateful to see a human coming to help," the shelter wrote on Facebook.

Photos released by the SPCA showed the elderly bulldog and small chihuahua appearing severely underweight.

Both animals were brought inside, where they are receiving food, shelter and veterinary treatment.

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An elderly bulldog and a tiny chihuahua were found tied to a bench outside the Monmouth County SPCA in Eatontown (MCSPCA via Facebook)

Police identify owner as investigation continues

The Eatontown Police Department has identified the dogs' owner, according to Ross Licitra, executive director of the Monmouth County SPCA.

"The Eatontown Police Department is actively investigating this case, and the MCSPCA is assisting in every way possible," Licitra said.

Abandoning an animal can result in criminal charges, fines, and possible jail time.

Licitra urged anyone unable to care for a pet to seek help instead of abandoning the animal.

"As always, we want to remind the public that abandoning an animal outside a shelter or anywhere else is not only illegal, but also extremely cruel," Licitra said. "The MCSPCA is committed to working with pet owners to find safe, humane solutions during difficult circumstances. We are here to advocate not only for the animals in our care and within the community, but also for the people who are trying to do the right thing."

The shelter also reminded the public that owners who need to surrender a pet can contact the SPCA for assistance and other available resources.

One dog recovering, one may soon find a new home

Both dogs remain at the shelter while receiving medical care.

According to Licitra, the chihuahua has been medically cleared and is expected to be available for adoption by the end of the week.

The bulldog, however, will need considerably more time.

Licitra said the senior dog was found to be slightly underweight and is being treated for anemia and muscle atrophy affecting his head. He will remain under the care of the shelter's veterinary team until doctors determine he is healthy enough for adoption.

The story has prompted an outpouring of support on social media, with many people expressing interest in adopting or fostering the dogs once they become available.

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