Windsor/Essex humane society investigating after injured dog found abandoned outside facility

A dog with a broken femur was left abandoned outside at the Windsor/Essex County Humane Society Thursday. CTV Windsor’s Chris Campbell reminds of safer options.

An injured dog is recovering after being found abandoned outside the Windsor/Essex County Humane Society (WECHS), prompting officials to renew calls for pet owners to seek help rather than leave animals unattended.

The Humane Society says the small dog — identified as a miniature Pinscher — was discovered Wednesday morning with a broken leg wrapped in bandages and trembling in the cold.

“We were alerted… and found that there was a small dog… shivering in the cold,” said Executive Director Lynnette Bain.

“It didn’t take long to figure out that she did indeed have a broken femur.”

Bain said the dog was found just before 9 a.m. — while the shelter was open.

“Just opening the door would have been the better way,” she said.

“We’re here to help… We can talk to you and find a solution.”

The animal is now receiving care and is resting comfortably while under a mandatory stray hold period as staff attempt to identify its owner. Surgery is expected, followed by several weeks of recovery.

An animal welfare inspector is investigating the case, and security footage has been shared, though no clear identification has been made. Bain says anyone found responsible could face charges including neglect, abandonment, or cruelty.

While the Humane Society says incidents like this are difficult to predict, Bain noted they are not unheard of.

“It is not uncommon,” she explained.

“One time is definitely too many.”

She added that surrendering a pet is always the safer and more responsible option — and that cost should not be a barrier.

“There’s different fees for different animals… But compared to the cost of housing that animal and providing medical care, it’s not even a drop in the bucket,” Bain said, noting it costs about $60 to surrender a dog and $30 for a cat.

She said staff are willing to work with pet owners who may be struggling.

“We’re not here to judge,” Bain told CTV News.

“If somebody has a situation… Let’s talk about it, because the animal’s welfare definitely comes first.”

In neighbouring Chatham-Kent, officials with Pet and Wildlife Rescue (PAWR) say they have also dealt with abandoned animals in the past, though not frequently.

“We’ve had injured animals being dropped off… Bunnies, cats and dogs being abandoned,” said Executive Director Myriam Armstrong.

“So, it does happen.”

Armstrong said her organization sees a handful of such cases each year and echoed the message that support is available.

“There’s no shame whatsoever… Just call us,” she said.

“We’re happy to discuss any situation.”

Both organizations say speaking with staff can help connect pet owners with resources, including food banks, financial assistance, or behavioural support — and in some cases, may help keep pets in their homes.

Anyone who recognizes the dog is asked to contact Insp. Bergeron of Animal Welfare Services at 519-562-8249.