I know exactly how you feel. I have a neighbor they have a very beautiful dog, they got him since he was a puppy. But after the puppy turned into a huge dog, they tied him in their backyard 24/7, he was dirty, wet and very smelling. I dont know how they can sleep at night when it was raining? I was thinking about take him to some shelter without telling them, but I am so glad somebody else called animal control before I did, and He is now in a very loving home and has all the attention he needs.