A Tempe park ranger rescued a dog Sunday that had been dumped and apparently left for dead in a trash bin — its mouth and legs bound with stereo wire, police said.
The public is asked to help find whoever is responsible, said police officer Jeff Lane.
"Animal cruelty is a serious issue," Lane said. "People who cause an animal to suffer pain or discomfort can be charged with a crime."
Park Ranger Kirk Erickson found the small female basenji and Queensland heeler mix among the trash at Walgreens, 83 E. Broadway Road, about 1:10 a.m. after dispatchers received an anonymous call.
The dog was squeamish with a number of cuts, Lane said.
Maricopa County Animal Care and Control took it to the East Valley Animal Care Center, 2630 W. Eighth St., Mesa.
A veterinarian there examined the dog and said it will likely survive its injuries, Lane said.
Erickson was not available for interviews, but Lane said he was shocked and upset that someone could abuse a dog in this manner.
The dog will be put up for adoption after 72 hours. Police ask anyone who saw a person or persons with this type of dog about 1 a.m. Sunday near Mill Avenue and Broadway Road to call (480) 350-8311.
