On November 30, an animal welfare office responded to Uncommon Apartments for an abandoned animal. The property manager called after receiving an e-mail from an 18-year-old male tenant reporting he had returned home to China and believed his dog was dead inside the unit. Upon gaining access to the apartment unit the officer found an severely underweight and lethargic puppy unable to stand. The estimated 4-month-old golden retriever was taken to the Emergency Veterinary Hospital and spent two days receiving around the clock care. Once in stable condition the pup was transferred to First Avenue Shelter and immediately placed in foster care. After two months of close observation from Greenhill Humane Society’s Veterinary Team, he reached a healthy weight. The puppy was named Jake by staff and was adopted by his foster family.
Attempts to contact the owner from China were unsuccessful. Further investigation by Animal Services and Eugene police detectives found that he left the country on October 29, and has not returned or enrolled for the new term at the university. The man remains a suspect in the case.
Animal services encourages people to consider their lifestyle before bringing home a pet. Greenhill Humane Society has great tips to consider when making a decision: