German Shepherds Being Mysteriously Dumped Throughout Northern North Jersey

photo courtesy of the Bergen County SPCA

the staff of the Ridgewood blog

Hackensack NJ, the Bergen County SPCA is reporting that in the past week, at least 8 German Shepherd dogs, thought to be related, have been abandoned throughout northern New Jersey. One such dog is Shelby, rescued by RBARI this past week after being tracked for days in Closter, then trapped by Buddah Dog Rescue and Recovery. Two other shepherds were rescued while running on the Palisades Parkway in Alpine, four more were found in Woodland Park, and one was found abandoned in Wayne. There are reports of sightings of at least 3 others possibly connected. None of the dogs have collars, tags or microchips, and all are very frightened, suspected to be the victims of backyard breeding.

Shelby acts like a breeder / puppy mill dog, shut down but sweet,” according to our kennel manager, Stephanie. “We have to carry her. She won’t walk on leash, is thin and covered in hundreds of ticks.” Shelby immediately saw a veterinarian upon admission to RBARI and was found to be approximately 6-years-old and not spayed. She walks in a crouched position, but we have not yet been able to determine if it is a medical or behavioral concern. Shelby will be spayed next week, at which time x-rays will be done of her back legs.

We are currently seeking experienced shepherd adopters, as the shelter has seen an increased influx of shepherds in recent weeks and months. Apparently, we are not alone in this phenomenon, as Shepherd rescues seem to be overflowing with a recent upsurge in intake. In addition to Shelby, we are currently housing Jack and Mason, surrendered to the Paterson animal control after being purchased from breeders, and Samson, who was purchased from a junkyard as a pup, then surrendered to RBARI. Adoption applications can be completed online at rbari.org. Please email adoptlove@rbari.org with questions.

Authorities are investigating the origin of these dogs, including possible DNA testing to see if they are related. If anyone knows or has seen anything, please contact the Bergen County SPCA Hotline: (201) 573-8900.