Rescue Center Urges Compassion as Elderly Dog Found Abandoned

SAINTS Rescue in British Columbia, Canada, recently came across a heart-wrenching sight that serves as a reminder that abandoning animals is “never the answer.” At the crack of dawn, on a freezing and rainy morning, they discovered a trembling elderly dog named Rocco, suspected to be 19 years old, left alone at the end of a driveway. Rocco, believed to be a Chihuahua and Yorkshire Terrier mix, was found in a crate, wearing two sweaters, which hinted that someone cared for him. However, he was terrified, and the shelter’s swift intervention likely saved him from enduring the cold and rain for hours.

Nathan Wagstaffe, the animal sanctuary manager, stressed the importance of not resorting to abandonment, saying, “We understand that people can feel desperate and overwhelmed, but abandoning animals is never the answer. They deserve better.” The center shared Rocco’s story to highlight the importance of reaching out for assistance instead of abandoning animals. As Wagstaffe explained, “Dumping animals is not safe, unfair to the animal, and the shelter. If they would have reached out, we could have taken him—which we did anyway—or helped find resources to assist him.”

It is suspected that Rocco’s owner had passed away, and the daughter of the owner dropped him off at the rescue center. Rocco is now safe and undergoing a thorough health check. Depending on his needs, he may be placed up for foster or adoption or live out the remainder of his life with the shelter.

SAINTS Rescue is an end-of-life sanctuary for senior and special needs animals, caring for them since 2004. With their current property outgrowing their needs, they are actively seeking funding to expand their facility to accommodate more animals. This expansion is crucial to provide a haven for animals like Rocco.

Rocco’s story resonated with many, and the shelter shared it on Facebook, prompting an outpouring of Support and compassion from people worldwide. Comments poured in, expressing sadness for Rocco’s plight and gratitude that he found a safe place.

We encourage everyone thinking of getting a pet to adopt instead of shop. Read more resources about adopting animals on One Green Planet, including 7 Reasons to Adopt Your Next Furry Best Friend, 5 Reasons Why Everyone Should Adopt a Pet, and These Heartwarming Before and After Pictures of Adopted Rescue Animals Will Make Your Day! Read tips for pet adoptions and what to consider before adopting an animal. We recommend using these apps to find shelter dogs near you!

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