Two hikers came across a disturbing sight last week when they found a German Shepherd with his mouth and neck zip-tied in a remote area of Malibu Creek Canyon in California. The two people spotted the dog behind boulders in an area popular with rock climbers.
The dog was visibly distressed, but they were fortunately able to gain his trust and then remove the zip tie from around his mouth. The dog appeared instantly relieved and let them pet him after they gave him food and water.
“He is such a sweet dog,” one of the rescuers, who wished to remain anonymous, told KTLA. “He allowed my friend and I to pet him and he gently ate our food out of our hands.”
They weren’t sure how long the dog had been out there, but whoever left him there most likely intended to kill him, given the outside temperatures and the zip ties.
The hikers called authorities and first responders arrived and helped to carry the dog to safety. The dog, now named Argon, is in the care of LA County DACC. He is around seven years old and appears “shaken” and “traumatized” but he is less anxious and sweet and gentle. Sadly, vets say he appears to have lymphoma so his next step is to go to an oncologist for tests before he can go into foster care or put up for adoption.
Argon at the shelter
Police are now investigating the case and In Defense of Animals is offering a $2500 reward for information leading to an arrest and $5100 if there is a successful conviction.
One of the rescuers said, “No animal should ever be put through the torture that this animal was going through.” He hopes that authorities are able to find the person responsible.
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