Deputies search for person who abandoned injured puppy in a trash bag in California

A driver found a severely injured puppy abandoned inside a garbage bag on the side of a road in California, officials said Monday.

A California Highway Patrol (CHP) sergeant brought the 4-month-old puppy, nicknamed Cheddar, to the Santa Cruz Veterinary Hospital for treatment on March 26, authorities said. Cheddar is underweight and shows signs of aggravated animal neglect and abuse.

The Santa Cruz County Animal Shelter thanked the driver who found Cheddar. 

“Their action, along with the CHP Sergeant, saved Cheddar’s life,” the shelter wrote on Facebook.

Authorities described the situation as a “horrific animal abuse case.”

Cheddar’s medical expenses are expected to exceed $10,000. He’s receiving round-the-clock emergency veterinary care.  People can donate to the Extra-Mile fund to help Cheddar.

The Santa Cruz County Sheriff’s Office is working to find the person who abandoned the puppy. Officials noted the pup was wearing a collar when he was found.

“This community will not tolerate animal abuse,” the animal shelter wrote on Facebook. “Please report animal abuse to the authorities.”

Anyone with information related to Cheddar’s case can contact Sergeant Miyoshi at 831-454-7640.