Abandoned and Alone: Dog Left Tied to Humane Society Sign Overnight
- Small Town Productions

- Jul 22
- 3 min read
Updated: Jul 23

COBOURG, ON
Small Town News | A Division of Small Town Productions
The Northumberland Humane Society is seeking the public's help after a disturbing incident of animal abandonment occurred outside their shelter late last night.
A dog was found tied to the organization's roadside sign and left alone in the dark. The animal was discovered by a K9 Security patrol, whose quick response likely saved the dog’s life. The shelter credits K9 Security for their compassion and fast actions
The shelter is requesting that anyone who has footage from a nearby doorbell camera or information/knowledge of the who abandoned the dog to please come forward and help them identify the individual.
All tips will be kept confidential, and anonymous reports are welcome.
Photos Provided by Northumberland Humane Society


🚨 Abandonment is a Crime — and a Cruel One
Let’s be clear: this was abandonment, and it is both illegal and inhumane. ❌
Under Section 445.1 of the Criminal Code of Canada and the Provincial Animal Welfare Services (PAWS) Act, abandoning an animal is a criminal offense. 📹⚖️
💔 Emotional and Physical Impact on the Animal
The dog was left tied to a post overnight outside of the humane society leaving it vulnerable to traffic, predators, and harsh conditions. Shelter staff say the dog appeared confused, frightened, and traumatized, with no understanding of why they were left or if help was coming.
“Animals experience fear, stress, and loss just like we do,” said a spokesperson from the shelter. “Being abandoned in this way can have lasting effects on their ability to trust humans again.”
🏥 A Shelter System in Crisis
This case also underscores the wider issue plaguing shelters across the country. According to Humane Canada, more than 50% of Canadian shelters are operating over capacity. Intake numbers continue to rise, while adoptions and funding remain insufficient to meet demand. 📈🏚️
“When someone dumps a dog, it doesn’t make the problem disappear, it pushes the crisis further onto those who are already doing everything they can,” a spokesperson from the shelter added.
🙋♂️ You Can Help 🙋♀️
The Northumberland Humane Society is asking the public for assistance. If you recognize the dog or know anything about who may have abandoned him, you are urged to contact the shelter. In the meantime please also share this notice to help increase awareness and #endabandonment
📞 905-885-4131
💡 There Are Always Better Options 💡
For those facing hardship or unable to care for their pet, humane options exist:
Surrender appointments 📅
Rescue assistance 🤝
Community support programs 🏘️
Choosing to abandon an animal is never acceptable.
“If you’re struggling, reach out. If you witness abandonment, report it. If you care, share this story.”
🙏 The Northumberland Humane Society wishes to express sincere thanks to K9 Security for their role in rescuing the dog and for their continued commitment to community safety.
🔗 View the original post from Northumberland Humane Society:
This incident is a stark reminder of a growing crisis in animal welfare — and one that highlights the severe emotional, physical, and legal consequences of abandonment. ⚠️🐶
#NorthumberlandHumaneSociety #AnimalWelfare #EndAbandonment #AdoptDontAbandon #ShelterCrisis #AnimalControl #ReportAnimalCruelty
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