Number Of Neglected, Dumped Dogs Climbs In Branchburg: Police Seek Help

BRANCHBURG, NJ — Another severely matted and neglected dog was found dumped in Branchburg overnight, bringing the number of dogs dumped in Branchburg to 12 and 23 in total for Somerset County.

Police from multiple towns are asking the public to share any video footage or information to help find the people responsible for dumping the dogs.

Just before 6 p.m. on Monday, a dog was found in White Oak Park at 235 Baird Road in Branchburg, said Branchburg Police Captain Edward Edgar to Patch.

This brings the number of neglected dogs found in Branchburg to 12.

“And then there were 12… This little lady joined us last evening after being found by a Branchburg police officer,” said Somerset Regional Animal Shelter. “Animal Control Officer Karen tucked her in a warm, clean space at the shelter with fresh water and food. When ready, she’ll get her turn at medical care and a makeover as she too, begins her journey to a new life.”

The first dog was found at 12:39 a.m. on April 26 in the area of Renda Drive. Later that day, just before 7 a.m., Branchburg Police were called to White Oak Park at 235 Baird Road for eight stray dogs in the area of the park and Branchburg Central Middle School. Read More: 22 Severely Matted Dogs Covered In Feces, Urine Dumped In Somerset County

Two more dogs were found at 5:05 p.m. in the area of Thoroughbred Drive and just after 11 p.m., in the area of Millenium Way.

The dogs were found with their fur “very matted down to skin with wood chips and feces in their fur, urine-soaked, overgrown nails, under-socialized — the whole nine yards,” said Somerset Regional Animal Shelter Manager Brian Bradshaw, who is housing the 12 Branchburg dogs.

An additional eight dogs in similar condition were found dumped in Bound Brook and taken to Plainfield Area Humane Society to be cared for.

Franklin Township Animal Shelter also has three more dogs and Animal Control Solutions has one dog.

As of Tuesday, this brings the total of dogs dumped in Somerset County to 23. All of the dogs are Shih Tzu-type dogs.

Edgar said residents and police are continuing to drive around and check the area for anymore possible dogs.

“We’re trying to get as much information as possible,” said Edgar. “We’re trying to figure it out just as diligently as everybody else.”

Police Investigation

The investigation is ongoing by Branchburg Police and Somerset Regional Animal Shelter at this time. Branchburg Police requests that anyone with information relating to this investigation to contact the Branchburg Police Department at 908-526-3830 or via the STOPit app. The STOPit app allows citizens to provide anonymous reports including videos and photos. STOPit can be downloaded to your smart phone for free at the Google Play Store or Apple App Store, access code: SOMERSETNJ.

Information can also be provided through the Somerset County Crime Stoppers’ Tip Line at 1-888-577-TIPS (8477). All anonymous STOPit reports and Crime Stopper tips will be kept confidential.

Bound Brook Police are also actively investigating their case of animal neglect involving eight dogs found abandoned in Bound Brook, with over a dozen more located in surrounding towns.

Bound Brook Police Department is seeking the public’s assistance in gathering any information that could help identify the origin of these animals. Specifically, they are requesting:

• Any surveillance footage
• Witness accounts
• Or any details that may assist our investigation

“We are focusing in the areas around Rock Machine Park and West Main Street in Bound Brook. However, due to the large amount of dogs and the broad area they were located, we are urging all residents to step forward to help us with this case,” said Bound Brook Police.

Anyone with any information is asked to contact Humane Officer Gatti at pgatti@boundbrookpd.org or anonymously via the STOPit app.

“Your help could make a critical difference in bringing those responsible to justice and ensuring the safety of these animals. Thank you for your support!” said Bound Brook Police.

Donations Needed

“While we cannot change the dogs’ heartbreaking past or how they ended up in Branchburg, please join us in focusing on preparing these precious souls for a much better future. All 11 dogs will need substantial vet care (spay/neuter, deworming, vaccines, dentals and more), grooming and behavioral assessments (it’s too early to know how social they are). They are NOT available for adoption,” wrote Somerset Regional Animal Shelter.

SRAS is a nonprofit organization that services pets in the Somerset County area. Vet costs are expected to run into the thousands and monetary donations are most needed. This will give the shelter the flexibility to respond to the dogs’ needs as they arise.

Community members can help the shelter by purchasing supplies from the shelter’s Amazon Wishlist or by making a monetary donation at srasnj.org/donate.

Adoption

While the dogs picked up are not available for adoption, Bradshaw added there are many other dogs and cats available for adoption. Adoptions are needed to make room for the dogs and more pets.

“We’re more than packed. I had to empty out one of my cat rooms just to put these 11 dogs,” said Bradshaw.

The shelter is open daily from noon to 3:30 p.m. at 100 Commons Way in Bridgewater. No appointment is necessary.

Anyone interested in fostering, adopting, or learning more about the shelter can call 908-725-0308 or visit srasnj.org or facebook.com/somersetregionalanimalshelter.

Have a news tip? Email alexis.tarrazi@patch.com.