Madison Shelter Investigating Cruelty After Dog Left In Cold

MADISON, NJ — A small dog was tied to a pole Saturday night amid the freezing cold in Irvington. Now animal-control officers from St. Hubert's Animal Welfare Center are investigating animal cruelty and are offering a $5,000 reward for important information.

A St. Hubert's officer received a call Saturday night about an abandoned dog outside an apartment complex in Irvington. The dog, who rescuers named Lux, had been tied with a rope to a pole on the corner of North Maple Avenue and Eastern Parkway.

Lux was "extremely matted and in intense pain," according to a press release from St. Hubert's. The matting blocked circulation to one of his paws and pinched and pulled at his skin with every little movement, according to the Madison-based shelter.

The officer rushed Lux to an emergency veterinary hospital, where the medical team cut away the mats and treated him for his wounds. But Lux's paw was so severely damaged that his leg had to get amputated.

St. Hubert's is seeking anyone who may have noticed anything unusual Saturday night near North Maple Avenue and Eastern Parkway. They're also looking for anyone who recognizes the dog or has information about those responsible for his condition.

The animal-welfare center offered a $5,000 reward for information leading to the identification, arrest and conviction of the person or people responsible. Call 908-526-3330.

"We need help from our community to help find those responsible for this act of animal cruelty," said Chris Schindler, vice president of field services. "We're hopeful this reward will encourage anyone with information to come forward as soon as possible."

St. Hubert's is using its emergency fund designated for medical care and rehabilitation. But the shelter is asking for donations to pay for Lux's medical care and help other animals with critical medical needs. Click here to donate.

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