SUSSEX COUNTY, N.J. — Authorities say additional abandoned dogs may still be at large across parts of Sussex County as rescue efforts continue following multiple incidents earlier this week.
The New Jersey State Police are investigating cases reported March 16 in Stillwater, Lafayette and Wantage, where multiple small-breed dogs were found abandoned under what officials described as concerning circumstances.
While several dogs have been recovered, officials said Thursday morning they do not yet know how many animals were abandoned in total.
Wantage Township Animal Shelter said sightings of dogs are still being reported in the areas where they were initially left, and it now appears more animals may remain loose than previously believed.
“All animal control agencies are working around the clock to help bring these dogs to safety,” the shelter said in an update.
Authorities and volunteers are continuing coordinated efforts to locate and safely contain the remaining dogs using all available resources.
“These acts of abandonment are not only cruel but also illegal,” said Sussex County Sheriff Michael Strada. “Law enforcement is committed to identifying those responsible and holding them accountable.”
The Sussex County Sheriff’s Crimestoppers program is offering a $500 reward for information that leads to the arrest of those responsible.
Officials are asking residents to report sightings or safely contained dogs to local animal control agencies:
- In Wantage Township, call 973-875-9390 or after hours 973-383-1514
- In Lafayette, contact Vernon Animal Control at 973-764-7751 or after hours 973-764-6155
- In Stillwater Township, contact Newton Animal Control at 973-383-2525
Tips related to the investigation can also be submitted anonymously by calling 973-300-CRIME (2746) or through the Sussex County Sheriff’s Office website or New Jersey State Police Troop ‘B’ Sussex Station at 973-383-1514
Authorities said the investigation and search efforts remain ongoing.
