Dog left by dumpster looking for home

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A dog who was abandoned in a small, dirty carrier and left next to a dumpster in Mill Valley is looking for a forever home.

A security guard at the Strawberry Village Shopping Center found the two-year-old poodle mix behind Safeway and contacted the Marin Humane Society.

The little dog had no identification tags and was not microchipped.

“The poor dog was filthy and his hair was incredibly matted. It had grown over his eyes, which were irritated and crusted,” said Marin Humane Society Veterinarian Anne Miller, DVM. “Clearly, he had been neglected for some time. Fortunately, he had no serious injuries and appeared to be in general good health.”

After trying several different types of treats to coax him out of his carrier, the dog finally accepted a small bit of cheese so shelter staff dubbed him “Mozzarella.”

While MHS officers investigated his case, Mozzarella was given a much needed bath and grooming by Mill Valley groomers, Doggie Styles, which donates their time and skills to shelter animals.

Mozzarella has quickly become a favorite of several shelter staff who have been showing him the love and affection.

He will be neutered and vaccinated this week and then become available for adoption. Those interested in adopting him can call 415-506-6225.

The Marin Humane Society reminds pet guardians to contact the shelter if they can no longer care for their animal. 

Abandonment is against the law and puts the animal’s life in danger – from getting hit by a car or from becoming lost.

MHS can offer assistance with behavior problems, spaying or neutering and we can take in animals when people can no longer keep the animal as part of the family.