An abandoned dog discovered in a dumpster and rescued by a member of the Indianapolis Metropolitan Police Department (IMPD) has died.
Abandoned Dog Discovered in Dumpster
Last week, late-shift officer Wroblewski unearthed a dog in a trash dumpster after someone called the authorities to report the pup’s presence. The canine, whose whiskers were cut off, appeared to have been thrown away.
“This is what people do to animals. This poor baby girl was thrown away in a dumpster and it was called in by a citizen,” a Facebook post on the IMPD Southwest District’s page read.
“If you can’t take care of your dog, don’t throw it away,” it continued. “Utilize resources. The animal shelter in Marion County has free adoptions. Everyone come check them out and adopt a furry friend!”
The officer posed for what seemed to be a celebratory pic with the fur baby. The Facebook post even suggested he might adopt the pup, who was transported to Indianapolis Animal Care Services (IACS), less than a mile away from the trash container.
A Tragic Turn of Events
Unfortunately, the small dog didn’t survive the night.
In a statement to 13News, IACS said the dog likely died of a parvovirus infection.
“Our Officer ensured best care possible by providing the puppy with a heated pad to help her warm up after being found,” the statement read. “Staff suspect that the puppy passed from a parvovirus infection.”
“Parvovirus is completely preventable with the necessary vaccines and anyone in need of assistance getting these vaccines can reach out to Indy CARES at [email protected],” the statement concluded.
An investigation is underway, but the person who discarded the dog has not been identified. There may be other puppies from the same home suffering neglect, and the IACS is working to ensure their care.
Like many animal shelters across the U.S., IACS has been facing staff shortages and overcrowding. It is currently accepting emergency intakes only.
The shelter has a “Preventing Euthanasia List” to help healthy, adoptable dogs find forever homes.
To see the pets eligible for adoption at IACS, visit its Petfinder listing here. Adoptions are free of charge and include spaying/neutering, microchipping, and vaccines.
