An injured dog was dumped outside the Western Riverside County Animal Shelter in Jurupa Valley Tuesday, and authorities put out a call for help in tracking down whoever abandoned the canine.
“It is illegal and inhumane to treat a dog in this manner,” Department of Animal Services Director Julie Bank said. “We will continue to monitor his health, and if no one comes to claim him, we will be providing surgery for him.”
The Pomeranian — veterinary staff have dubbed him “Lucky Sunshine” for his sprightly demeanor — was found Tuesday morning hobbling outside the shelter with a fractured right front leg, according to agency spokesman John Welsh.
Veterinarian Luis Lizarraga immediately identified the source of the dog’s disability and placed a cast on the bad leg, he said.
According to Welsh, state law prohibits any type of pet abandonment — regardless of whether it’s outside an animal shelter — and dumping an injured domesticated creature compounds the potential penalties.
Animal control officers are reviewing video security surveillance camera footage around the compound to identify who may be responsible, Welsh said.
Anyone with information about the dog was urged to contact animal services at 951-358-7387.
Meantime, Lucky Sunshine and other canines at the shelter are in need of foster care. Interested parties can find more information online at www.rcdas.org/index.php/about-us/donate.