Pets
5 Hard-Luck Dogs, Cats That Deserve A Home In Essex County
A sweet "Grandpa" may have less than a year to live. A dog's worst nightmare has come true. Learn about three other animals who need a home.

ESSEX COUNTY, NJ — A sweet “Grandpa” in Essex County may have less than a year to live, and he should be spending it with someone who is happy to spoil a dog that deserves a break, rescuers say.
A few weeks ago, the Bloomfield Animal Shelter announced that it was in custody of a dog that was found huddled alone in a crate in the pouring rain on the corner of Cook Road and Hoover Avenue.
The senior canine was friendly, but there was an ominous sign: visible masses on his testicles.
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Staff provided a sad update on Thursday:
“We wish we didn't have to share this update. Further results returned for our sweet man Grandpa. It's believed all of his cancer was removed during his neuter two weeks ago, however, it's unknown if it'll return, and it's guessed he may only have six months to one year left to live. Hemangiosarcoma is one of the most common types of cancers in dogs. The prognosis is generally poor. Our hearts are broken for him, especially how he was disposed of, left for us to find him in a cage at night, in the pouring rain. While he doesn't seem to be in any pain, we'd like to find him a ‘fospice home’ for him to enjoy however long he has left. He loves everyone he meets, but is not a fan of other dogs and will need to be the only pet. That's OK – he deserves to be spoiled for his remaining time. We are open to a rescue taking him in too.”
“Please consider meeting Grandpa and giving him the gift of a Furever Home for however long he has left,” the shelter implored.
Find out what's happening in Bloomfieldfor free with the latest updates from Patch.
Learn more about adopting from the Bloomfield Animal Shelter here, and see more adoptable animals here.
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'WORST NIGHTMARE HAS COME TRUE'
Not the right fit for Grandpa? There are plenty of other hard-luck pooches and kitties in Essex County that need your help, too.
Here’s a recent post about another dog that needs a home from the Associated Humane Societies-Newark:
“Mango’s worst nightmare has come true. Four years ago, Mango left the shelter with a wagging tail, ready for his new life. Now, it’s all gone. His owner is undergoing surgery with no one to care for him, and Mango is back—heartbroken, confused, and completely shut down.”
The shelter continued:
“At 6-years-old and 65 to 70 pounds, this big sweetheart can’t catch a break. He spends 23 hours a day in his kennel, sinking deeper into stress and sadness. His only joy? A short walk outside before being led back to wait… and wait… and wait. Though we are diligently working on his shelter stress, Mango needs out NOW. He’s already neutered and ready to go. Please don’t let him waste away here. Meet him at AHS Newark and give him the second chance he deserves.”
Learn more about adopting from the AHS-Newark animal shelter here, and see more adoptable animals here.
'SWEET DOODLE SEEKS HOME'
Last week, the East Orange Animal Alliance shared another post about a dog who has been struggling with life in the shelter.
According to the group, here’s what to know about Gabe – the “sweetest Doodle looking for a home”:
“Gabe is a 2-year-old, 60 lb doodle with a heart of gold! Despite his size, he’s incredibly easy to walk, takes treats oh-so-gently, and already knows how to sit like a pro. Unfortunately, kennel life is really hard on him, and he’s been scratching at the gate in distress. He needs a loving home—foster or adoptive—where he can finally relax. While he hasn’t been formally dog tested, he shows no reaction to other dogs when he sees them. Can you help Gabe find the safe and loving home he deserves? Come meet him today or share to help Gabe find his family!”
Learn more about adopting from the East Orange Animal Alliance here, and see more adoptable animals here.
'TRI-PAWED CAT IS HAPPY GIRL'
The Friends of the Montclair Township Animal Shelter recently shared an adoption plea in the name of Parker, a “gorgeous” cat that had to have her back leg amputated.
According to a post from the group:
“Parker is a sweet 4.5-year-old girl who has beautiful yellow-green eyes and a gorgeous black and white coat. At first glance, it is hard to tell but Parker is actually a tri-pawed. Due to a former injury she had to have her back right leg amputated. However, this does not slow her down and she is a very happy girl. She is initially shy but easily won over with a treat, followed by some nice head scratches. Parker is up-to-date on vaccines, spayed, and ready to be your new buddy!”
Learn more about adopting from the Montclair Animal Shelter here, and see more adoptable animals here.
'SAVE HER FROM CRATE LIFE'
Finally, the Caldwell-based Rescue Haven Foundation recently shared a post about Pelusa, a dog that desperately needs some good, old-fashioned exercise.
According to the nonprofit:
“Pelusa is still looking for someone to save her from crate life! This poor girl spends most of her days crated but she needs exercise, mental stimulation and someone to love her. She's beautiful, smart and looking for a foster or adopter. WOOF FACTS: 2-years-old, 68 pounds, no cats, friendly, smart eager to please, crate trained and house trained, spayed and up to date on shots.”
Learn more about adopting from the Rescue Haven Foundation here, and see more adoptable animals here.
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