Dog In Monmouth County Shelter Lost Family To Coronavirus

EATONTOWN, NJ — The Monmouth County SPCA expects to get many animals in Che-Che's situation. The dog came to the adoption center last weekend after two members of her family died from the new coronavirus.

Che-Che was scared and shaking when she arrived. But staff made the 9-pound pooch feel safe with a loving touch.

New Jersey Coronavirus Updates: Don't miss local and statewide announcements about novel coronavirus precautions. Sign up for Patch alerts and daily newsletters.

"We can't imagine what it's like for a dog like her to suddenly lose everything she's ever known and then end up in an unfamiliar place," Monmouth County SPCA wrote on its Facebook page.

Che-Che isn't ready for adoption yet, but the public can help. An anonymous donor offered to match any donation dollar-for-dollar up to $200,000 through Aug. 31.

Through the MCSPCA Matching Gift Campaign, donations can help in the following ways:

• $15 will become $30 to provide shelter to abandoned dogs and cats
• $25 increases to $50 to help spay and neuter animals
• $50 turns into $100 for emergency surgery

In the coming days, Che-Che will receive veterinary care, including dental, spay, vaccines and a warm bubble bath. Then staff will no longer need personal protective equipment to handle her.

And when she's ready, they'll honor Che-Che's family and find her a good home. But the MCSPCA is preparing for more animals like Che-Che, who lose family to the coronavirus.

Monmouth County has reported 3,875 positive cases of the virus as of Tuesday morning. State officials have counted 127 deaths in the county.

"Unfortunately, Che-Che is the first of many animals that we anticipate needing a safe haven in these uncertain times," the organization said. "We're asking for your support NOW so that we can ensure every animal has a loving place to call home while they're temporary without one."

Click here for more info in the MCSPCA Matching Gift Campaign.

Read more: NJ Coronavirus Updates: Here's What You Need To Know

Click here to get Patch email notifications on this or other local news articles or get Patch breaking news alerts sent right to your phone with our app. Download here. Follow Long Branch-Eatontown Patch on Facebook. Have a news tip? Email josh.bakan@patch.com.