After the Neptune Township Police Department was alerted of a neglected 10-year-old Rottweiler, Coco, chained to a house with no access to food or water, they contacted Monmouth County SPCA’s animal control division for help. Fortunately, Cocoa was brought safely into their shelter and provided respite from her prior suffering through nourishment and care.

Over the Christmas weekend, Coco was miraculously discovered in Monmouth County SPCA’s Facebook post – a lost and frightened pup who had spent three nights out in sub-zero temperatures.

It was a heartbreaking sight for the Monmouth County SPCA when they arrived at Coco’s former residence; this poor pup had been subjected to unimaginable neglect. Not only were her owners gone, but she was left outside on a concrete pad with no food or water and chained up so that she couldn’t even escape from the harsh elements of winter.

Despite her pain and suffering, Coco is an exceptionally gentle, loyal, and loving pup. Bloodwork conducted by the rescue revealed that she may have kidney stones in addition to a genetic eye condition most likely caused by reckless breeding practices. As such, Coco will remain at the shelter while continuing her recovery before being eligible for adoption.

In a recent Facebook post, the Monmouth County SPCA announced that “although she is not yet up for adoption, we encourage anyone interested in her to keep an eye on our social media and website for updates — this girl deserves a loving home!” The SPCA reported that the erstwhile proprietors of the pooch will be brought to trial, and indicted with charges of animal cruelty in twofold: unjust incarceration and disregarding duty concerning necessary maintenance.

The Monmouth County SPCA is a tireless advocate for animals, protecting them and ensuring their well-being through adoption services, educational programs, and local community engagement. Serving more than 30 municipalities in the region of New Jersey with an open-admission animal shelter policy – simply put: we do not turn any pet away!

The story of Coco serves as a stark reminder that animal abuse is an abhorrent offense and should never go unpunished. We ardently wish for Coco to find a loving, permanent household in the near future. Additionally, we are calling for her former custodians to be held responsible and justly punished for their mistreatment of her. All pet owners should take responsibility over the well-being of their animals; disregarding them is inexcusable and unacceptable.