PHILADELPHIA (WPVI) — The Pennsylvania SPCA says a puppy was discovered inside a sealed box left outside its Hunting Park shelter on a bitterly cold Tuesday morning, prompting an urgent response from staff.
According to the organization, a person entered the shelter to alert employees that a large box was sitting outside the door. Staff members brought the box inside and found a young mixed-breed dog named Tangi.
The U-Haul moving box had no air holes and was taped shut. Gillian Kocher, the SPCA’s public relations director, said the puppy appeared distressed when staff opened it.
“She was certainly a little bit shaken up, I would say. She was drooling. You can imagine being taped in a box is not a pleasant experience,” Kocher said.
Kocher said the box also contained a handwritten note. It read: “I have no other option. It’s either eviction or let the dog go. I have filled out adoption apps, but nothing has happened. Today was my last day….She has all of her shots. Good dog. Her name is Tangi.”
Kocher said the shelter understands the challenges some pet owners face.
“We never want to point fingers because we certainly understand the situations people are in and how hard this must have been and we do empathize with that, but we also just want to encourage people to spend the time and come, and we’re here to help,” she said.
Kocher added that other resources are available if they couldn’t keep Tangi.
Staff say Tangi, who is nearly a year old, quickly began showing her personality once she was safe inside.
“It didn’t take long for her to show her true personality, which is that she is so sweet and wagging her tail, and I think she’s just a young dog who might be a little bit confused but has a lot of love to give,” Kocher said.
Kocher added that she hopes Tangi will soon find a permanent home.
“I think she could fit well into any home, and so we’re hopeful for that. We’re hopeful that at the end of the day, she made it to the right place, and she’ll find a forever family who will love and care for her,” she said.
Shelter staff said Tangi will be ready for adoption on Thursday at noon.
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