Aspects of this next story may be distressing to some listeners.
Listener discretion is advised.
Last week, a dog was dumped at the old New Castle Cemetery. In the time since, concerned residents have banded together in order to capture the canine, with many worried about its health in the freezing weather. Three years ago Garfield County Sheriff’s Department eliminated their Animal Control program due to budget cuts, and it has been left to local law enforcement or private community members to handle situations just like this.
KDNK’s News Director Hattison Rensberry has more.
PUPDATE: Earlier today, a post to the Lost Pet Facebook group stated that the dog, whose name is “Sweetie” is now safe. According to an eyewitness, a car drove up nearby and opened the door, and Sweetie jumped in. Here’s hoping that this is the happy ending Lakota residents were looking for.
January 18th, PUPDATE: Multiple individuals report the dog safe in the care of a neighbor, and she is expected to be brought to a local vet for care of her paws. There have been an outpouring of grateful words on the Saving Sweetie of New Castle Facebook Group, and several offers from other neighbors to assist with vet or food bills.