‘He’s a well-rounded, good boy’

“At this point in time, we have no further leads unless somebody comes forward,” she said.

Landsburg encourages anyone who recognizes Elmer to send a confidential tip to the SPCA by calling 1-888-703-7722.

Both Milligan and Ross also want to find Elmer’s owners so they can better understand what happened.

“He’s not afraid of anything. He loves the car; he loves people. He was obviously in a home where he was loved,” said Milligan.

“Whether or not they just couldn’t provide veterinary care for him, or maybe he was lost — we don’t know. We’re all just assuming because of his appearance that he was neglected. It would be nice to know the story behind it.”

The duo also say Nova Scotia needs to do better when it comes to helping animals in need.

Both the SPCA and local bylaw officers were not available to respond to Ross’ request for help as Elmer was found on a Friday night and not considered to be in immediate danger.

The Lost Dog Network directed Ross to their website, which had a list of what to do when you find a dog.

“I went through that list and called everybody on it. I didn’t get to talk to a single human person on that list,” Ross said of her attempts to find help July 14.

Both Ross and Milligan say they hope Elmer’s story encourages changes so that people who find strays after hours or on a weekend don’t find themselves struggling to care for the animal.

“Although I know they’re probably doing the best they can, it would be nice if there was more funding to go towards them so they could operate 24/7… It would just be better for the animals,” said Milligan.

“If we can work together to improve what we’re able to do in the future, that would make me really happy.”

Landsburg said the SPCA did get in touch with Ross on the weekend she found the dog and offered assistance; however, Elmer was already en route to see a veterinarian.

“The SPCA are available for emergencies on evenings and weekends — we have an afterhours answering service,” Landsburg said.