By Jeff Dorson

Director of the Louisiana Humane Society

According to the Humane Society of Louisiana (HSLA), the discovery of two dogs tied up to trees in the woods in the town of Franklinton was part luck and part divine intervention.

On April 22, a Franklinton resident thought she heard barking in the woods behind their home. Thinking it was odd to hear barking since no one lived in the area, the homeowner contacted Franklinton Animal Control, who dispatched an officer to investigate. The officer found two dogs tied to trees, almost totally obscured by thick brushes, trees, and branches. The leashes were so short, neither dog could turn around or lie down. 

The officer untied the dogs, a one-year-old pit mix and a young Aussie mix that is deaf and partially blind, and brought them back to Franklinton Animal Shelter. After completing the intake process, the officer then turned them over to HSLA, one of their primary adoption partners. The group named the friendly pit terrier Harley and the other Harper. HSLA has already transported Harper to one of their no-kill partners up north and is hoping to find the perfect home for Harley.  Neither required emergency medical care since they were discovered not long after being abandoned. 

Officers have initiated an investigation and welcome any tips or leads that would help them identify the perpetrator(s). Abandoning any animal is a misdemeanor and is punishable by up to six months in jail and a fine of up to $1,000 per count. Anyone with information is encouraged to contact the city of Franklinton Animal Shelter at (985) 551-1298. 

The Humane Society reports that there has been a dramatic increase in the number of animals being abandoned and surrendered to shelters than in previous years. The group attributes it to the increased cost of caring for pets as one contributing factor.

“We are very grateful that someone heard these dogs bark and alerted the authorities,” HSLA Director Jeff Dorson said. “If the dogs had been left for any extended period of time, they would have suffered from hunger, thirst, and exposure to the elements. We also hope that the heartless person who did this will be caught and face the consequences.”

Those interested in adopting Harley can contact the Humane Society at 1-888-6-HUMANE (486-263). The adoption fee is $125 and all candidates must submit an adoption application by contacting info@humanela.org. To make a donation to support the Humane Society’s rescue efforts, please mail it to HSLA, P.O. box 740321, New Orleans, LA 70174 or through its website account at https://humanela.org/donate.