HOPATCONG BOROUGH, NJ (Sussex County) – A tragic accident, serves as a stark reminder of the importance of keeping a close eye on pets while outside.
On Oct. 22, at around 6:00 p.m., a small white dog was struck by a vehicle on Maxim Drive in Hopatcong Borough. Despite the efforts of several individuals who stopped to assist and remove the dog from the roadway, she succumbed to her injuries at the scene, according to the Hopatcong Animal Shelter.
“We want to give a huge thank you to the individuals who stopped and attempted to render aid to the dog and removed her from the roadway,” the shelter said.
The shelter emphasizes the importance of vigilance when it comes to pet safety, urging all pet owners to take precautions to prevent similar incidents.
If your dog is missing, contact your local police department immediately to report the situation. To help keep your furry friends safe, the shelter offers the following tips:
- Always leash your pet when outside. A simple distraction, like a squirrel, can lead to dangerous situations.
- Ensure your dog has an updated tag or microchip with your current contact information.
- Regularly inspect your fence for damage. Make sure the gate latches securely, and that there are no gaps that your dog could slip through.
- Teach your dog commands like sit and stay, especially from a distance, to keep them safe near busy roads.
- Spay or neuter your dog to reduce the likelihood of roaming behavior.
- Instruct children to always keep doors closed to prevent pets from escaping.
The Hopatcong Animal Shelter hopes that by following these guidelines, pet owners can help their beloved companions avoid dangerous situations. In the unfortunate event that a pet is hit by a car, the shelter urges owners to contact local authorities for assistance.
