Search Continues For Missing Dogs In NJ, And For Whoever Abandoned Them

SUSSEX COUNTY, NJ — Authorities are still on the hunt for at least two lost dogs who were abandoned on the side of the road earlier this week, and for whoever put them there.

On Monday night, state police from Troop "B" Sussex Station responded to "multiple reports of abandoned dogs" on County Route 619 in Stillwater, Meadows Road in Lafayette Township, and Clark Road in Wantage Township, Sussex County.

At least 18 animals, all believed to be small dog breeds, had been dumped across the three locations, all left by the road in open crates without any food or water, police say.

Story continues below photos

Most of the dogs have been rounded up and taken to nearby animal shelters, but authorities believe at least two dogs remain on the loose.

According to Wantage Township Animal Shelter, one of the missing dogs was spotted in Wantage, and another may be near the Lafayette/Wantage border. Shelter representatives added that they don’t have an exact number of abandoned dogs, and there could be more than just the two that were spotted.

“We are actively using every available resource to locate and safely contain them. While we initially believed only a few remained, it now appears there may be several more still out there,” a Wantage Animal Shelter statement read. “All animal control agencies are working around the clock to help bring these dogs to safety.”

• If you see or have safely contained a dog in Wantage Township, contact Wantage Township Animal Control: 973-875-9390 (After hours, 973-383-1514)

• If you see or have safely contained a dog in Lafayette, contact Vernon Animal Control: 973-764-7751 (After hours, 973-764-6155)

• If you see or have safely contained a dog in Stillwater Township, contact Newton Animal Control: 973-383-2525.

The incident has sparked an investigation by state police, the county sheriff, and local law enforcement.

“These acts of abandonment are not only cruel but also illegal,” said Sussex County Sheriff Michael Strada. “Law enforcement is committed to identifying those responsible and holding them accountable.”

The Sussex County Sheriff's Office is offering a $500 reward for information that leads to the arrest of those responsible for abandoning the dogs.

The sheriff's office can be reached at 973-300-CRIME (2746), and state police can be contacted at 973-383-1514.

Anonymous tips are welcome.