Neighbors Alarmed as Dog Is Left Stranded in Whitehall Home Following Owner’s Arrest

Neighbors in a South Hills community say they're committed to getting help for a stranded dog. He's alone, barking and stressed to the max at a home in Whitehall.

Neighbors on McKee Drive called KDKA-TV, saying they need help. The dog has been trapped inside a home for nearly three weeks while his owner is in the Washington County Jail.

Stressed out, all alone, forced to relieve himself inside and surviving on food from the neighbors, Milo has seen better days.

"We've made an effort to assist and provide food and water for the dog. As temperatures rise, we don’t want the creature to face any health issues or—God forbid—he suffer harm,” stated neighbor Nick Dolman.

The Peters Township police apprehended Michael Schuler, who owns Milo, at the beginning of this month for purportedly breaching a protection from abuse order that was submitted against him by his former spouse, daughter, and son-in-law. According to allegations, he threatened his relatives, stating he intended to crash his pickup truck into their home’s entrance.

As these criminal proceedings unfold, Dolman maintains that it's not the creature's fault.

"The air conditioner isn’t running, and I haven’t checked inside yet. A neighboring pet feeder has established some trust with the dog, making it somewhat less hostile towards perceived invaders like me. So, I make sure to maintain a safe distance and avoid adding to the dog’s stress," explained Dolman.

That one neighbor can access the house through the garage, tossing food to Milo, but it's not ideal.

Whitehall Police Chief Jason Gagorik admits this is a complicated situation, but he's talking with animal control daily. Since dogs are considered property, police can't just kick the door down and take the dog.

He said all the local kennels are filled to capacity, but something's in the works for early next week. Once a kennel spot opens, animal control can free Milo.

"I understand it's a difficult situation. There are laws that we have to abide by, which is good, but it just seems to be overly complicated when you're trying to sort of make sure an animal doesn't suffer more than it needs to."

Local law enforcement as well as those with animal advocacy groups say they are hoping a spot will open up Monday. The neighbors are praying that's the case because they already feel like they've waited so long to get this animal to safety.