When dogs are surrendered or abandoned, we can be quick to judge the person who would do that to their animals. But there are many complicated circumstances that lead to animal surrenders. Some truly hope their dogs will be better off in someone else’s care. Some have little knowledge of the resources available to them. A Staffordshire mix left tied up inside the Sacred Heart Church in Blackpool, Lancashire before Christmas is somewhat of a product of both those things.
That dog, now named “Cracker,” was accompanied by a heartbreaking handwritten note. The note, written by the person who left Cracker in the church, explained that the dog was in fact loved, but unable to be properly cared for.
“Please believe me when I say I haven’t done this easily. My dog means the world to me and I don’t know what else to do. I’ve no home or money now for him. Life has taken a really bad turn for me and I couldn’t imagine him being outside with me cold and hungry.”
Cracker’s person just wanted him to be in better hands. It clearly hurt them to let him go.
“My heart is broken and I will truly miss him more than words can say. I hope he can be found a new home he deserves. I love you and I am so so so sorry.”
RSPCA inspector Will Lamping, who took the pup to a vet check up after he was found, harbors no ill feelings towards the person who left Cracker at the church. Sadly, many people are forced to surrender their dogs around this time of year.
“Unfortunately sometimes life can throw some pretty tough things at people and circumstances can drastically change but it’s heartbreaking to think that someone out there is missing Cracker and wondering how he is doing. I’d really like to reassure them that he’s doing well and is getting lots of TLC.”
Lamping also hopes to locate that person to find a way to let them be with Cracker. There’s no punishment involved or anything like that.
“If anyone does come forward then I’d like to let them know that they won’t be in any trouble and we’d like to chat to them and see how we might be able to help them, and Cracker.”
Lamping shared that people with dogs who are in dire straits can come to charities like the RSPCA for support.
“If you’re having difficulties with finances, housing or find yourself homeless then there are people who can help you. We are not here to judge you and simply want the best for you and your animals.”
After the story of the reluctantly abandoned Staffie began to circulate, Street Paws stepped in to provide some more details to a concerned public. Street Paws is an organization that promotes animal welfare by providing free veterinary care and emergency kennel space to animals belonging to people experiencing homelessness or extreme poverty.
The dog’s previous name is Rooney, they noted on Facebook. His person had worked with them before.
“We can confirm that this dog Rooney is known to Street Paws as we have supported with kennel space in the last year for his owner. We would like to thank everyone for their concern, and would like to reassure we are liaising with RSPCA inspectors to ensure the best possible outcome for him. This includes reaching out in Blackpool with homeless service providers to locate his owner and offer support.”
So it seems that Rooney/Cracker will be looked after as his person wanted. Let’s hope that means they can still be together someday!
H/T: Daily Mail
Featured Image: @RSPCA_Official
Toledo, United States.
