The Niagara SPCA is seeking information after a severely injured dog was found abandoned at DeVeaux Woods State Park in Niagara Falls early Wednesday morning. New York State Parks Police responded to the dog park area where the animal was discovered tied up and bleeding.
Shelter staff say the female dog was in poor condition upon arrival. According to the Niagara SPCA, she was frightened, underweight, and suffering from injuries, including missing toenails and bloody front paws.
The SPCA is providing the necessary medical attention and plans to work toward her eventual recovery and adoption.
Animal welfare advocates in Western New York are raising concerns about what they describe as a growing trend in pet abandonment across the region. Kelli Swagel, founder of The Pit Chic shelter on Grand Island, noted that abandonment cases are happening daily and placing strain on local shelters.
Officials at the Niagara SPCA point to several factors contributing to this surge, including financial hardship, a lack of access to veterinary care, limited support resources, irresponsible pet ownership, and unchecked breeding practices.
The SPCA is urging anyone with information about the dog left at DeVeaux or other cases of neglect to contact their Investigative Unit at (716) 731-4368 ext. 361.
SPCA Investigates after Severely Injured Dog Abandoned at State Park in Niagara Falls