Dog Abandoned in Sealed Box Covered in Heartbreaking Note: ‘I Have No Other Option’

A dog described as “gentle” was left outside an animal shelter in a sealed cardboard box, along with a handwritten note from her owner explaining they had run out of options.

The Pennsylvania Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals (SPCA) shared the story of the dog — named Tangi — on Facebook, including photos of her and the conditions in which she was found outside the shelter’s offices on Wednesday, Dec. 10.

The organization posted an image of the large box Tangi arrived in, taped shut, with a note from her owner that read, “I have no other option. It’s either eviction or let the dog go.”

“I have filled out adoption apps, but nothing has happened,” the owner continued. “Today was my last day, and my back is [against] the wall. She has all her shots. Good dog. Her name is Tangi.”

Shelter staff said that when they opened the box, they saw a light-brown dog peering up at them, wearing a collar and sitting on something pink.

“When we opened [the box], scared eyes looked up at us,” the SPCA shared. “She was shaking and so stressed that she was hypersalivating, clearly overwhelmed by everything around her. And yet, the moment a hand reached toward her, she leaned in, gentle and searching for comfort despite everything she had been through.”

The agency added that Tangi received “medical testing, behavioral exams, and every check we needed to do.” Throughout it all, she stayed close to the workers, as she “just wanted to be near someone.”

“She followed staff closely, rested her head against anyone who knelt beside her, and cried when she was left alone. All she wanted was to feel safe,” the SPCA wrote.

The organization noted that Tangi was “found in the freezing morning air” and urged anyone who needs to “surrender an animal urgently” to come inside the shelter and speak with staff instead of leaving a pet outside.

“We are incredibly grateful someone spotted that box when they did,” the SPCA said. “It was less than 30 degrees outside when she was abandoned. We truly sympathize with the circumstances her previous owner may have been facing, but we also want everyone, including pets, to remain safe.”

The SPCA also encouraged anyone needing general pet help — including guidance on what to do during difficult times — to contact the Pennsylvania SPCA or a local shelter or rescue for support.

As for Tangi, the shelter said she is “currently on a stray hold in case an owner comes forward,” and if no one does, she will be made available for adoption.

“… We know she’ll steal hearts quickly,” the SPCA added. “For now, she is safe, and so, so loved.”