German Shepherd Forced To Endure Cold In 79th Street Backyard For Months, Neighbor Says

UPDATE: Two police officers, one of whom is affiliated with the ASPCA, visited the residence last night and determined that the dog was “nourished and in good shape. Starved for attention perhaps but physically sound” according to a neighbor. Apparently, the German Shepherd isn’t allowed in the house because “the wife is afraid of him” the neighbor tells us.

While a cinder block shed in the yard is in fact available as shelter, the dog apparently prefers to remain out in the cold, through rain and snow.

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A local has brought it to our attention that there may be animal abuse taking place on 79th Street, between 18th and 19th avenues. According to the concerned neighbor, a German Shepherd has been left out in the backyard of one of the homes 24 hours a day for months now.

“It was appalling to see this poor dog languishing out there during the summer months, but now, in this biter cold, it is horrific,” the tipster wrote to us.

She went on to say that she and multiple friends and neighbors have contacted 311 and the ASPCA numerous times about the dog’s welfare, but that the dog is still out there.

“We are at our wits end as to help this unfortunate dog!” she wrote.

The concerned neighbor gave the following in depth description of the dog’s situation:

At one point I had thought that the dog must be taking shelter in the cement block shed, however one of the concerned neighbors next door, who can see into that yard, assured me that those doors are never open for the dog to gain access. The dog alternates between sitting, pacing or laying on at the top of the steps, on the metal landing, against the back door in this bitter cold. It barks periodically and quite often howls in such a way as to pierce your heart.
When I have contacted 311 online, I have received email confirmations that the situation was investigated and either no one answered the door, the owner of the dog was advised, or no police action was necessary.

The Bean has contacted the 62nd Precinct who said they would send someone to the address to look into it.

“This story is unacceptable and no pet should be subjected to these conditions. If found guilty, under my legislation, the perpetrator would be required to register with the Animal Abuse Registry and would incur heavy penalties,” Council Member Gentile wrote to us, referencing his recently introduced legislation Int. 1265.