A story that starts out sad will hopefully have a happy ending for a dog that was rescued from an abusive situation.
Jeremy Baird, Graham Packaging Plant Manager, explained that on Tuesday, the plant’s warehouse manager observed a truck driver waiting to deliver a load drag a small dog out from under the truck and mistreat it. At that time, the driver was asked to leave and told he wouldn’t be unloaded that evening.
The incident was reported to Baird, who reviewed surveillance footage Wednesday morning and then contacted City of Bradford Police. Baird said an officer came to the plant, took a statement, watched the video and took a copy for evidence.
At that time, the driver had returned to the warehouse to be unloaded, so officers contacted the McKean County SPCA and responded, Baird explained. The driver was confronted by the officers and given a couple of options. The driver was from out of state and opted to surrender the dog to the officers, who then turned him over to the SPCA.
Bradford City Police Chief Mike Ward explained the investigation into the incident is ongoing.
“The dog was seized from the owner by police and the SPCA took possession and provided any necessary care,” Ward said. “The owner is a North Carolina resident who was a truck driver picking up goods. The dog will not be returned to the owner.”
Baird, a dog lover with two canine family members at home, expressed interest in adopting the pup. He filled out adoption papers and is waiting to hear from the SPCA. He noted that his employees at the plant are hopeful they will accept his application.
“I told them we will call him Graham for Graham Packaging,” Baird said. “I have a bunch of dog lovers here.”
The dog is currently in a 14-day quarantine, after a visit to the veterinarian following the incident. Baird, who checked on the dog yesterday, said to his knowledge the dog does not have any broken bones and is doing fine. Once quarantine is over, the SPCA can move forward with future plans for the pup.
“I’m hopeful I get considered to adopt him, but the main thing is to get him a better home,” Baird said.
The incident was also reported to the carrier that employs the driver, and officials there offered to cover the adoption fee if Baird is able to make the dog a part of his family.
