VIDEO: Hikers Find Dog With Mouth Zip-Tied Shut Abandoned in Hot Malibu Canyon Sun—Then Do This

Argon was found dumped in Malibu Canyon, California. Illustration by The Epoch Times, Courtesy of In Defense of Animals

The look of agony on Argon’s face tells his sob story only too plainly—just look at those sweet puppy dog brows knitted together in sorrow. But it seems Argon’s broken canine heart yearns to love again.

On July 3, good strangers were hiking in Malibu Canyon, California, when they laid eyes on those sweet brows and realized that Argon, a German shepherd aged about 7, had been abandoned and left to die in the arid Los Angeles County heat.

Alarmingly, a thin band of black plastic wound tightly around Argon’s muzzle was discovered, and concern turned to outrage for many who learned of his plight. It appears whoever left Argon to rot in the sun also fastened his mouth shut tightly with a zip tie, In Defense of Animals stated. Another zip tie restricted his neck.

Argon was discovered in a remote area about 250 feet down from the side of Malibu Canyon Road, according to Agoura Animal Care Center, by a group of hikers who, through kindness, gained his trust before calling Los Angeles County Sheriff to step in.

Law enforcement and animal control officials arrived and freed Argon of his bindings before carrying him to safety.

Hikers in Malibu Canyon spot Argon zip-tied and build trust by feeding him from their hands. (Courtesy of In Defense of Animals)

Argon the dog seen in Malibu Canyon when he was found by hikers on July 3. Courtesy of In Defense of Animals

Despite being harshly treated before being saved, Argon’s canine heart warmed to his rescuers as he let them pet him and ate right from their hands. They then brought him to Agoura Animal Care Center where he got the medical attention he needed.

During his examinations, though, vets made another painful discovery.

The vets saw signs that Argon has lymphoma, and he has since undergone tests. Prognosis permitting, Argon’s carers are now hopeful to find a forever home for him, though for anyone wanting to adopt Argon, public placements are not in consideration right now.

The tormented canine still faces a long road of recovery ahead. But just hours ago, he was handed off (along with lots of praise and chicken) to German Shepherd Rescue of Orange County where he will continue getting the care and love he needs.

Now, some in Los Angeles County are also seeking justice for Argon.

(Left) Rescuers feed Argon in Malibu Canyon; (Right) Argon after his rescue. Courtesy of In Defense of Animals

“Argon was left to suffer and die in a remote location. We urge anyone with information about this cruel act to come forward,“ said Fleur Dawes, from In Defense of Animals. ”We are determined to find the person responsible for this horrific abuse and hold them accountable since they are a danger to others.”

The group is offering $5,100 for information leading to a conviction of the one responsible for zip-tying Argon and leaving him for dead in the wilderness.

Sharing words of gratitude, animal advocates praised all parties who helped save Argon from Malibu Canyon and support him now as he faces possible cancer. Although still shaken, Argon himself shows his heart is still full of love.

“We want to thank everyone for pulling for Argon just as much as we have,” Agoura Animal Care Center said in a statement. “We certainly have been moved by his sweet and gentle nature in the face of unimaginable evil.”

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