The Newark Police Dept. called the Associated Humane Societies' Newark facility to alert us to two dogs languishing in the raw, cold weather on a heavily traveled street. Sadly, traffic & passersby would continue on their way -- assuming that they are probably owned & cared for -- but they had a long struggle to survive.

One dog was kept in a junk car while the other one was tied up outside to a rear bumper with no shelter or sustenance. When Tom Circle, the ACO approached the car, he could see that the inside dog would use one side of the car for the bathroom and would stay in the back seat of the car. A homeless man who was standing nearby ran off.

Tom brought both dogs back to base at the AHS Newark shelter for individual attention to each dog. Sunny was the first to be met by our evaluators & the following is her thoughts about Sunny: "He reminds me of a knowing old soul. I instantly understood, through his eyes, his will for life. He is noble & extremely intelligent. He is a once-in-a-lifetime type of dog.

He was once a beloved family member, but somehow ended up locked away in a broken-down car. He did everything in his power to survive through months of harsh weather & random feedings. He was so strategic to ensure his survival that he designated different areas of the car for sleeping & excretion. I dont' know how he got through it, but thankfully he has. Not only that, but he came out of it like a shining star, proving he is absolutely amazing.

Sunny aced his evaluations. He did not show any interest in a toy or bone. He accepted all handling of his bowl & body while eating. He walks like a dream on the lead and he is friendly with other dogs. He could be a show dog, he's so gorgeous. He endured too much in the horrible existence he had & never let it ruin his nice disposition".

ACO Tom Circle is still working with the male dog (Freedom) that was tied to the bumper. He has not been able to withstand the horrors that Sunny has. It will take a lot longer to gain Freedom's trust and confidence.

Thanks to our donors, we always need funds to take the time that is necessary to bring them up to speed for adoption.

For more information on Sunny, call AHS at 973-824-7080 or e-mail associatedhumane@aol.com and refer to File 29148-M.