This is Barley, a handsome German Shepherd, who found himself abandoned at Riverside Animal Shelter by his owner on August 25, 2021. There was no heartfelt farewell or even a backward glance – his owner simply walked away, leaving Barley behind to watch his departure. When Barley was led to his kennel in the shelter, his cries echoed through the halls, a heartbreaking testament to his sorrow.

An animal advocate voiced her sentiments on social media: “What a deeply distressing and traumatic experience for a pet to be callously surrendered and left by their guardian. The unfortunate pet, betrayed and overwhelmed, is left to deal with the aftermath. The owner didn’t even spare a backward glance to ensure Barley was okay. It’s unfathomably cruel, heartless, and inexcusable to abandon one’s loyal, loving, and trusting animal companion. Please help this sweet, loving boy today.”

Rae shared Barley’s information via PetHarbor on Facebook: Dog – ID#A1638503. I am a neutered male, weighing in at 103.00 lbs, and I’m a black and tan German Shepherd. I’m estimated to be around 6 years old. I’ve been at the shelter since 08/25/2021. If you need further information, you can email: adoptions@rivco.org or shelterinfo@rivco.org. Alternatively, call: 951-358-7387. Rescues can reach the rescue desk at 951-358-7302 or email: rescue@rivco.org.

The shelter is located at 6851 Van Buren Boulevard, Riverside, California 92509 and is open to the public from 1-3:30 pm, Monday – Saturday. Adoption fees depend on the length of stay: 1-15 days is $105, 16-30 days is $55, and any stay over 30 days is $20, although all dogs listed as NEEDS RESCUE can also be adopted with a signed behavior or medical waiver.

For more information about Barley, please call Riverside County Animal Control – Riverside Shelter at (951) 358-7387 and ask for information about animal ID number A1638503.

Please share Barley’s story with your friends, family, and social media contacts, and any approved rescue organizations you know. Sharing saves lives. Follow the ongoing conversation here