Elverta, CA, dusk—She was a small, shy jet black spaniel mix who had just been dumped, along with four other dogs, on a rural stretch in the outskirts of Sacramento County.
She died in a volunteer’s arms after being struck by a truck. A team of local volunteers had set up humane traps in hopes of rescuing the other four dogs.
“There’s always been a segment of people who abandon dogs and cats in in rural areas,” states a 9-year independent dog rescue veteran who works with SAIR (Sacramento Animal Independent Rescue).
“But it seems to be getting worse.”
Common excuses given as to why pets are abandoned or surrendered to a shelter include divorce, moving or aggression. But lately, it appears the pandemic is creating a financial crisis, with record pets being abandoned in rural areas of Sacramento County.
“There’s no legitimate reason to dump your pet. Even if the local shelters are closed you can call a handful of independent rescue groups in the area.“
“Abandoning your pet along the side of the road is a death sentence.”
Update: All 4 dogs are now in foster care. Donations to help with vet bills can be sent to: http://www.siarescuers.org/
