In a heartwarming tale of compassion and quick thinking, two hikers stumbled upon a shocking scene in a remote area near Malibu Creek Canyon – a distressed 7-year-old German shepherd with its mouth cruelly tied shut by a zip tie.
On July 3rd, two rock climbers were exploring the rugged terrain when they came across a sight that left them deeply shaken. The German shepherd, clearly in distress, had been abandoned in the middle of nowhere, its muzzle tightly bound with a zip tie.
“Someone did this intentionally,” recounted Jonathan Manaoat, one of the hikers. “They left him stranded, down a hill in the middle of nowhere off the side of the road. They left him suffering. They left him for dead.”
Undeterred by the dog’s precarious situation, the two hikers sprung into action. They knew they had to gain the dog’s trust before attempting to remove the zip tie. Slowly and gently, they approached the scared animal, offering food and gentle petting.
“He is such a sweet dog,” Manaoat said. “He allowed my friend and I to pet him and he gently ate our food out of our hands.”
With the dog’s trust secured, the hikers carefully removed the zip tie, freeing the German shepherd’s muzzle. They were relieved to see the dog’s condition improving, though they noted signs of inflammation and warts, likely from exposure to poison oak in the remote canyon.
The hikers’ quick thinking and compassionate actions undoubtedly saved the dog’s life that day. Had they not stumbled upon the scene and intervened, the German shepherd’s fate would have been unthinkable.
Now, as the authorities investigate the incident, the search is on for the culprit responsible for this heinous act of animal abuse. The hikers’ account has sparked outrage and a determination to hold the perpetrator accountable.
While the details of this case are deeply disturbing, the heroic actions of the two hikers serve as a heartwarming reminder of the kindness and compassion that can be found in humanity. Their willingness to stop and help a distressed animal in need is a testament to the power of empathy and the difference one can make.
As the rescued German shepherd continues to receive the care and attention it deserves, the community can take solace in the knowledge that the quick thinking and compassion of these two hikers likely saved the dog’s life. This inspiring story serves as a poignant reminder that even in the face of cruelty, there are those who will step up to make a difference.
