“He’s a good boy” were the last words on a handwritten note attached to Max, a three-year-old dog abandoned by an owner who said they could no longer care for him due to financial circumstances.
The Toronto Humane Society is looking to reunite the pet with the owner after what the local shelter has called a “heartbreaking” decision.
“With rising costs and inflation affecting everyday expenses like groceries, gasoline, and housing, many of us are just one crisis away from being unable to care for ourselves and for our pets,” the Humane Society said in an online statement.
Max was found last Monday at Primrose Avenue Parkette near Davenport Road and St. Clair Avenue.
On the note, Max’s owner says they couldn’t afford to look after him after losing their job and their home.
Max, who will turn four in June, is described in the note as “good with kids” and a “very smart” dog.
Toronto Humane Society said that as inflation strains the wallets of dog owners, more families across the GTA are surrendering or finding a new home for their pets.
“Choosing between caring for your pet and caring for your well-being is not a fair choice, but unfortunately, with nowhere left to turn, this has become a reality for a growing number,” the organization said.
The Toronto Humane Society continues to search for Max’s family, hoping to enrol them in the local shelter’s Urgent Care program.
Launched in 2020, the pandemic response initiative provides temporary foster homes for pets, giving time for their owners to “get back on their feet” after undergoing “challenging circumstances.”
“If you are Max’s family, please reach out to us so we can ensure you and Max end up together,” Toronto’s Humane Society said.
