Puppy Abandoned In Taped-Up Box: Pennsylvania SPCA

PHILADELPHIA — An abandoned puppy was found in a taped-up cardboard box outside the Pennsylvania SPCA's Erie Avenue shelter earlier this week, according to the rescue group.

The puppy, named Tangi, was "shaking and so stressed that she was hypersalivating, clearly overwhelmed by everything around her."

"And yet, the moment a hand reached toward her, she leaned in, gentle and searching for comfort despite everything she had been through," the PSPCA said. "Throughout the day, during medical testing, behavioral exams, and every check we needed to do, Tangi just wanted to be near someone. She followed staff closely, rested her head against anyone who knelt beside her, and cried when she was left alone. All she wanted was to feel safe."

Tangi appears to be in good health, and officials believe she was well taken care.

"She has the sweetest demeanor," a PSPCA representative said.

Officials with the group said Tangi is lucky to have been found quickly, as temperatures were below 30 degrees when she was found at the facility.

"We truly sympathize with the circumstances her previous owner may have been facing, but we also want everyone, including pets, to remain safe," the PSPCA said. "If you ever need help with a pet, please reach out to us, or any shelter or rescue in the area. And if you must surrender an animal urgently, please come inside and speak with someone."

A note was included with the box, saying the owner either had to let give Tangi up or face eviction.

"Today is my last day and my back is to the wall," the note read.

Officials with the PSPCA will work to find the owner, but said criminal action would not be pursued.

"There may have been things we would have preferred were done differently, but we believe that in this case the intentions were good," the representative said.

While Tangi is on a stray hold in the event an owner comes forward, she will be made available for adoption later Thursday.

See here to learn more about the Pennsylvania SPCA or to contribute to its life-saving mission.