By Meghan Foley
Photo credits: Needham Police Department via Facebook
On January 27th, Needham Police made a Facebook post announcing that they had located a dog who had been missing for six days. The police say Lala was “dumped” and had been on her own during the snowstorm while police, fire, animal control, and volunteers searched for her through the snow.
Since being found on the 27th, Lala has been receiving medical care and love while NPD investigates the circumstances of her estrangement. They have regularly been posting updates on Lala on their Facebook page, including a photo of her freshly-groomed and sporting a bandana, and report “an overwhelming show of compassion and support from this community.”
The police department extended their thanks to the DPW, Fire Department, news agencies, volunteers, and Missing Dogs of Massachusetts, and asks anyone who might have “any information whatsoever regarding the dumping of Lala in town” to contact Officer Denneno at vdenneno@needhamma.gov. However, they also say: “We respectfully ask that the public refrain from speculation. Our officers and ACO are actively investigating this incident, and rest assured, we will get to the bottom of it.”
The police department also reminds the public: “While only one family will ultimately be chosen for Lala in the end, please remember this: There are thousands of dogs sitting in shelters right now who were dumped, abandoned, removed from abuse, or simply let go. Lala just happens to be the one who got the attention of THOUSANDS of people. These animals are waiting for someone to see them. To choose them. To be their voice.”
Lastly, the department warns the public to be cautious of scam accounts asking for donations for Lala, and provided this URL for the legitimate account: https://venmo.com/u/NPWDFoundation.
“Donations will cover the veterinary costs and help cover items related to purchasing traps for the future related to locating lost, missing, or abandoned dogs.”
“Thank you to everyone who shared posts, made calls, sent messages, donated, and kept Lala in your thoughts. Your kindness made all the difference.”
