Dog left outside Colonial Heights PetSmart in summer heat still needs a home one year later
VENN
COLONIAL HEIGHTS, Va. (WRIC) -- In June 2024, a dog was found tied to a tree outside of a Colonial Heights PetSmart in over 90-degree heat. A year later, she's still looking for a loving home.
On Friday, June 29, 2024, an animal control officer with Colonial Heights Animal Control was called to a local PetSmart for report of a dog left outside in the heat.
When they got to the scene, they found a light-colored lab mix tied to a tree in the store's parking lot. It was over 90 degrees outside and no water had been left with her.
Footage of the dog found tied to a tree outside of a Colonial Heights PetSmart. (Photo: Colonial Heights Animal Control)
The dog, now named Ivy, was taken to the county shelter -- where she still is a year later, according to animal control officials.
"We are shocked [she's still here,] as well, because she is such a great dog," the shelter said. "She keeps getting overlooked because she is so high energy, but once you get her out and play with her, she does tend to calm down."
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Animal control officials said the best home for 3-year-old Ivy would be an active one with a fenced-in yard and at least one doggy sibling, as she loves to run and play. She does not do well around cats, as she is "way too interested in them and is fixated on chasing them."
The perfect fit would be a family that would let Ivy be their "adventure dog or jogging buddy," as she would thrive if she could go hiking, camping or play at the beach.
Ivy, the dog who was left tied up outside of a Colonial Heights Animal Shelter in June 2024. (Photo: Colonial Heights Animal Control)
Ivy, the dog who was left tied up outside of a Colonial Heights Animal Shelter in June 2024. (Photo: Colonial Heights Animal Control)
"She does jump on you in excitement and can be mouthy when playing, but those are things that can be worked on," the shelter said.
Ivy is spayed, microchipped and her rabies shot is good until September.
If you'd like to meet her, Colonial Heights Animal Control would love to set up a time for you to do so. You can message the shelter on Facebook or call 804-520-9397, ext. 5.
