The reward for information leading to the arrest of the person or people who abandoned a German Shepherd in a remote area of Malibu Creek Canyon with zip ties around the canine’s mouth and neck has grown to $25,000. In Defense of Animals, the advocacy group spearheading the effort, announced the increased reward on Wednesday.
The initial reward of $2,500 was announced on July 8th, following the discovery of the dog on July 3rd. Days later, Peace 4 Animals and members of the public contributed an additional $5,100, raising the total reward to $7,600. Public support has since pushed the reward to its current level of $25,000.
Hikers found the German Shepherd, a 7-year-old male later named Argon, around 7:45 p.m. on July 3rd. They were able to remove the zip ties and contacted law enforcement and animal control officials. Argon was discovered approximately 250 feet down the side of the road near the 500 block of North Malibu Canyon Road.
Los Angeles County Animal Care and Control officials stated that Argon exhibited signs of inflammation and skin issues, leading them to suspect possible exposure to poison oak. Argon was initially taken to the Palmdale Animal Care Center for medical treatment before being transferred to the county’s Agoura Animal Center.
In Defense of Animals (IDA) reported that Argon was recently placed with German Shepherd Rescue of Orange County. The rescue organization confirmed earlier suspicions that Argon was suffering from lymphoma. They also found that Argon had double ear infections, edema in his lower extremities, and trauma to his hind legs. While his ears are healing, his feet remain swollen.
Maria Dales, founder and director of German Shepherd Rescue of Orange County, described Argon as an incredible mixture of strength and softness. Despite the abuse he endured, he remains a gentle soul, demonstrating growing trust in his rescuers. He will be seen by a veterinary oncologist next week to determine the next steps in his treatment plan.
Fleur Dawes, communications director for IDA, urged anyone with information about Argon’s abuse to contact the organization at 415-879-6879. Donations can also be made online at idausa.org/argon.
Dawes expressed gratitude for the overwhelming public response, highlighting the concern for Argon and the desire to see his abuser held accountable. She believes that someone knows the dog and the person who hurt him, hoping the substantial reward will encourage them to come forward and provide information for justice for Argon.
