Injured Dog Abandoned and Found Wearing 'Homeless' Sign - Central Coast News KION/KCBA

SANTA CRUZ, Calif. -- The Santa Cruz County Animal Shelter said an elderly couple found an older white and black Cocker Spaniel tied to a pole near Soquel and Front Street.

Shelter staff said the dog was wearing a sign that said 'homeless.' The dog was found on Wednesday and had an Elizabethan collar around her neck. She also had a severe wound on her stomach that was infected. Shelter staff said the cut was wrapped with an ACE bandage, but the dog did not have proper veterinary care.

The dog was brought to the Santa Cruz County Animal Shelter where a vet cleaned up the dog and gave her medication and antibiotics.

"We are thankful to the Good Samaritan who found this sweet dog and brought her to the Santa Cruz County Animal Shelter," states Field Services Manager Todd Stosuy.  "We want to ensure we find her previous owner and justice is served for the suffering she had to endure. Not providing veterinary care to a suffering animal is not only illegal, but morally reprehensible."

The shelter said its illegal to abandon an animal that needs veterinary care. Anyone with information is asked to call 831-454-7254.  The two shelters are located at 2200 7^th Avenue in Santa Cruz and 580 Airport Boulevard in Watsonville.