“Southern Ocean County shelter urges adoption after dog left behind on roadside.”
Manahawkin, NJ – A dog found abandoned earlier this month along a roadside in Ocean County is still waiting for a permanent home, as shelter staff say her affectionate temperament makes her case difficult to understand.
Haley was discovered on Beckerville Road in Manchester and brought into the Southern Ocean County Animal Shelter system, where she has since been transferred between facilities due to space constraints. Despite the moves, staff say her situation remains unchanged—she is still without a home weeks later.
Shelter advocates are now urging the public to consider adoption, highlighting Haley’s personality and compatibility with families.
Key Points
- Dog named Haley found abandoned in Manchester, NJ earlier this month
- Currently housed at Southern Ocean County Animal Shelter in Manahawkin
- Shelter says she is friendly, playful, and good with other dogs and older children
Shelter questions why dog was left behind
Staff described Haley as housebroken, affectionate, and energetic—traits they say typically make dogs highly adoptable.
“She’s been with us for several weeks now, and we can’t help but wonder,” the shelter said in a statement. “Was she abandoned because she’s basically housebroken? Was she dumped because she’s too friendly, too affectionate, too loving… because she truly is all of those things?”
The shelter added, “She is dog-friendly and would do best with dogs who appreciate her active, playful energy.”
Adoption encouraged as Haley remains in care
Haley is currently available for adoption at the Southern Ocean County Animal Shelter, located at 360 Haywood Road in Manahawkin. Officials say she would do well in a home with children ages 10 and older who can match her activity level.
“She doesn’t need a perfect home—just a loving one. She doesn’t need everything—just someone,” the shelter said.
The facility is open daily from 1 p.m. to 4 p.m., and prospective adopters are encouraged to visit and meet Haley in person.
