HOPATCONG BOROUGH, N.J. (Sussex county) — The Hopatcong Animal Shelter is urging pet owners not to abandon animals and warned that providing false information about dumped pets can create dangerous situations for responders and shelter staff.
In a public statement, the shelter said surveillance cameras, license plate readers and witnesses often help authorities identify people responsible for abandoning animals.
“Please Don’t Dump Your Pets. And Please Don’t Lie About Them,” the shelter stated. “There are cameras, license plate readers and witnesses EVERYWHERE. You will get caught. You will be charged.”
Shelter officials said abandoned animals are often frightened, stressed and overwhelmed, making accurate information about their behavior and temperament critical for safe handling and care.
“Animal shelters and animal control officers are here to help, but when someone abandons a dog and gives false information, or no information at all.. it puts everyone at risk,” the shelter said.
Officials noted that inaccurate details about a dog’s history, temperament or interactions with people and other animals can place shelter employees, volunteers, veterinarians and rescue partners in unsafe situations.
“Our staff, volunteers, ACOs, veterinarians, and rescue partners handle animals with care every day. They deserve honest information so they can safely do their jobs,” the shelter stated. “And the dog deserves a chance to be understood, handled appropriately, and placed in the right environment.”
The shelter encouraged residents struggling to care for pets to seek help through local shelters, rescue organizations, friends or family members instead of abandoning animals.
“Be honest. Be responsible. Your pet spent its life trusting you. Don’t abandon that responsibility when they need you most,” the shelter said.
