it seems like the owner who tied their dog to your fence knew that you would help.. you must have a great pet home and he/she knew it.. it was very irresponsible, but people are desparate these days with forclosures and the price of gas.. maybe you have a reputation as a great lover of animals.
maybe the other option was the pound.. i bet this type of thing is becoming more common.. best wishes..
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Purchasing from backyard breeders, pet shops, and puppymills perpetuates the suffering of other dogs.