‘Heartbroken’ family forced to abandon dog opts to rehome him: Toronto Humane Society

The four-year-old dog who was found abandoned in a Toronto parkette along with a heart-wrenching note last week will be rehomed, the Toronto Humane Society (THS) said on Monday.

Max, who was found in the Davenport area, was described in the note as “very smart” and “good with kids.” The note also explained that the owner lost their job and apartment and was therefore no longer able to care for their pet, ending with “he’s a good boy.”

THS put out an appeal on their website looking for Max’s family in order to offer them a spot in their urgent care program, which provides foster homes for pets whose families are temporarily unable to afford their care. It allows the owners to get back on their feet while knowing their pet is well cared for.

A hand written note was left with four-year-old pet dog Max, found abandoned on Monday. Credit: Toronto Humane Society

In an update to CityNews, THS said they were able to connect with Max’s family late Monday morning and one of their social workers had a “thorough discussion” with them.

“The family is heartbroken, but at this time, feels the best outcome for Max is to find him a new home,” said Tegan Buckingham, director of integrated marketing and development at THS.

She added that Max’s case is not unique and many people find themselves in the position his family is in, given the soaring cost of living and job losses during the pandemic.

“They fear what may happen to them and their pet should they bring them to an animal shelter. Many people fear judgement and/or other implications of bringing their pet to one of these organizations,” she said.

“Toronto Humane Society offers a judgement free animal surrender process that does not ask pet parents to pay a fee. We understand how difficult this decision is for many pet families and want to help wherever we can.”

Along with the urgent care program, THS offers a pet parent support network that walks the family through a number of different available options before they choose to surrender their pets so that they can stay together.

If none of the options are suitable, THS will take the pets in and find a new home, like they are now doing for Max.

He will now go through the standard adoption process and several people have already offered to give him a home, added Buckingham.