Abandoned Salem Dog Trained For Adoption; Owner Cited For Cruelty

SALEM, MA — The German Shepherd found abandoned at a Salem dog park last month is undergoing training as he prepares to be ready for adoption — while his former owner is facing an animal cruelty and abandonment citation — in an update that Salem police provided on Monday.

Salem police said the dog named "Sarge" was surrendered to a Massachusetts nonprofit and foster care rescue called Gals Best Pal — as breed specialist Mary Farren is helping train him for eventual adoption.

Police said Sarge will not be available for adoption anytime soon, but those who are interested in him and have experience with the breed can contact team@galsbestpal.com for consideration.

Those willing to help out with Sarge's supplies, vetting, boarding and training program can also do so here.

Sarge was found apparently abandoned at Salem's Leslie's Retreat Park on Nov. 13 and taken to the police station for safekeeping.

Salem Animal Control Officer Don Famico and the patrol division were able to identify the owner, who police said admitted to abandoning Sarge. Police said that the former owner will be summoned on a criminal complaint for cruelty to an animal and willful abandonment.

"We thank the public for their outpouring of support and offers of assistance," said Salem police, adding that Sarge is in healthy condition. "Pet owners are reminded that if you are no longer able to take care of your animal, and efforts to rehome them have been unsuccessful, there are resources available to assist."

Sarge's story caused quite a stir among concerned citizens in November with Salem police's call on social media for help identifying the owner drawing hundreds of comments and considerable outrage within the day.

The Northeast Animal Shelter on Highland Avenue in Salem can help with rehoming an animal and possibly accept it if necessary.

The Massachusetts Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals also has an adoption center for dogs, stray cats and small animals.

Salem ARO Famico can be reached at 978-744-0171 Ext 50121 or dfamico@salempd.net for additional resources and assistance.

(Scott Souza is a Patch field editor covering Beverly, Danvers, Marblehead, Peabody, Salem and Swampscott. He can be reached at Scott.Souza@Patch.com. Twitter: @Scott_Souza.)