An elderly dog was discovered abandoned, tied to a picnic table with a note attached that read, “He was a good boy”

On a scorching Thursday in Syracuse, New York, a scene unfolded that tugged at the heartstrings of the community. A senior dog, later named Max, was found abandoned and tied to a picnic table in Schiller Park. A heartbreaking note attached to a nearby pole simply read, “He was a good boy.” Left with minimal shade under a gazebo, Max, clearly emaciated and dehydrated, was a victim of neglect. Thankfully, good Samaritans stumbled upon him and offered him much-needed water, which he desperately lapped up.

Cuse pit crew steps in to help

The sight of Max alerted Syracuse Animal Control who, in turn, contacted the non-profit organization Cuse Pit Crew. Recognizing the urgency of the situation, Cuse Pit Crew arrived promptly to assist. This dedicated group understands the plight of abandoned animals and works tirelessly to find solutions. They took to social media to raise awareness about the incident and shed light on their crucial role in the community.

“Max is not the first, nor will he be the last dog abandoned in a park,” Cuse Pit Crew wrote in their social media post. Their message aimed to address the root cause of such heartbreaking incidents. They emphasized that their services are not solely about rescuing animals, but also about offering problem-solving support to pet owners facing challenges.

Seeking solutions, not judgment

Cuse Pit Crew’s message resonated with the community. They highlighted their commitment to helping pet owners without judgment. Their goal is to prevent situations like Max’s through proactive support. They encourage anyone facing difficulties with their pets to reach out for help: “The last thing we want is to see another Max left in a park to fend for himself. Please email us at [email protected] for questions on ways we can help,” they stated.

Hope for a brighter future

Thankfully, with the intervention of Cuse Pit Crew and the local authorities, Max received the care he desperately needed. Syracuse police swiftly identified a suspect who was arrested on charges of abandonment and cruelty. The suspect relinquished custody of Max, allowing Cuse Pit Crew to focus on his recovery.

Currently under the care of Humane CNY, Max is receiving treatment for various health issues. He has infections in his eyes and ears, along with arthritis. Despite years of neglect, Max’s resilience shines through. He enjoys his time at the shelter, relishing the rest and pain medication that eases his discomfort. While his bloodwork reveals anemia and dehydration, his overall condition is encouraging for his age. Although vision issues and permanent ear damage are a reality, Max’s lively spirit remains undimmed. He’s greeted his human caregivers with warmth and affection.

A call to action

Max’s story serves as a stark reminder of the importance of responsible pet ownership and the valuable role organizations like Cuse Pit Crew play in animal welfare. While Max’s case has a hopeful update, his situation raises awareness about the challenges faced by countless abandoned animals. We can all play a part in creating a more compassionate future for pets by supporting organizations like Cuse Pit Crew and advocating for responsible pet ownership. By promoting responsible pet care and offering support to struggling owners, we can hopefully prevent similar incidents from happening again.