However, the recent case of an abandoned puppy found in New Bern, North Carolina, shows that some situations can still be surprising.

What made this case different from others wasn’t just the puppy, but the note left next to him.

That note not only shocked people but also angered animal control officers and many in the community. 

“Please Take Me”

A kind man stumbled upon the abandoned puppy in a cage near the Books-A-Million parking lot in New Bern, North Carolina, and immediately contacted New Bern Animal Control. 

Officers were quick to respond, and when they arrived at the scene, they were left stunned by what they saw. 

"Leaving an animal on the side of the road like that, especially in the summer heat with no water… just a bag of food in the cage, it’s just not right," said New Bern Animal Control Officer Kevin Bahr in an interview with WITN. 

Source: Craven County Sheriff’s Office – Animal Protective Services

But what truly took everyone by surprise was the note they discovered inside the cage, where the twelve-week-old puppy was sitting.

"Please take me… I'm a 12 week hound. I don't bite. Take great care of him. He has food with him," the note read. 

While the note might have made it seem like the owner had good intentions, the officers were still baffled by how someone could leave their puppy out on the street like that. Many locals shared in their disbelief.

"I can't imagine why anyone would just abandon a puppy…especially in a cage. There are services available for unwanted animals. It’s just reckless… I hope they find whoever did this," said Matthew Nelson, a New Bern resident. 

Thankfully, the kind-hearted rescuers quickly found a solution for the abandoned puppy. He was transferred to Craven-Pamlico Animal Services, where he will stay until he finds his forever home.

Source: Craven County Sheriff’s Office – Animal Protective Services

Illegal Action

Soon after rescuing the puppy and bringing him to the shelter, the officers shared an update on their official Facebook page, Craven County Sheriff's Office – Animal Protective Services.

In their post, they reminded the public that abandoning an animal is illegal, no matter the circumstances or location. "It is important to note that under NCGS 14-361.1, abandoning an animal is illegal and can result in fines of up to $1,000," they explained in the post. 

Facebook users who saw the post were quick to express their outrage as well.

One user wrote, "People never fail to disappoint!!" Another commented, "How can someone abandon a dog like that and still sleep at night? I have 5 and they’re part of my family!"

A third user sadly added, "what a cute dog! poor guy😥"

Thankfully, thanks to the kindness of good people, this puppy is now safe and waiting for better days and a loving family to take him in and care for him.

In the end, the officers used this puppy’s case as a reminder to other pet owners who might consider doing something similar.

"While we understand that everyone’s circumstances are different, leaving a dog where anyone could take him shows a lack of concern for his well-being," they wrote.

"There is no excuse or tolerance for this behavior in Craven County."

Source: Craven County Sheriff’s Office – Animal Protective Services