HRA investigating after malnourished dog is dumped in bushes and almost run over

WASHINGTON — The Humane Rescue Alliance is searching for whoever dumped a scared and hungry dog in bushes along a roadway in Northeast D.C. The act was caught on video obtained by WUSA9. 

Just after 10 p.m. on Saturday, a home camera captured the moment a driver pulled over near the intersection of East Capitol and Anacostia Ave NE.

The video shows a person getting out of their vehicle, dumping a dog in the bushes, and nearly running her over while speeding away.

Several neighbors told WUSA9 they heard the dog’s cries and called 911.

“It’s very disturbing," said Jack Gomez. They’re just neglecting a dog, leaving [it] in the streets. Anything can happen to [it].” 

Another neighbor took her in, fed her, and even took her to the vet. The dog is about 2 years old and in pretty good shape. For safety reasons the neighbor asked not to be identified, but he said she was found wrapped in this Spider-Man blanket, scared and hungry.

“Very upsetting. You can see she is in need of care and hasn’t been cared for very well,” the neighbor said. 

The neighbor posted about what happened on NextDoor, hoping someone would recognize the vehicle or the dog. He can’t imagine how someone could abandon her.

Since the post, he told WUSA9 he’s received a lot of support from neighbors and strangers, offering to help with food and pet supplies. For now, she has food, water and a loving home. The neighbor said the dog will stay with him for now, then she’ll be rehomed.

“I appreciate everyone’s concern and support," they said. "A lot of people have reached out. Just goes to show how many good people there are.”

The DC Humane Rescue Alliance (HRA) said their law enforcement officers are investigating. If you recognize the vehicle, contact the HRA.