First of all, whatever you do, worry about yourself first, then worry about the dog. Now for some of my experience which may not go over very well here. I drive through the "not so good" part of town every day on my way to and from work. For the most part I have noticed and experienced that most of the people on the street are decent people. However, I stress most because we always know there are exceptions to the rule. If you really believe the pawn shop guys might help because they can see that you really want to help, and they can see the dog being abused regularly, they may just be willing to help - even if it's putting in a good word for you with the so called owner. If you go back, go during the day and talk to maybe the owner of the pawnshop who is really a businessman after all. Treat him with respect and show him that you just want to help but are afraid because you don't know the ways of the neighborhood. And like someone else said, don't go in a fancy SUV or anything and don't dress up or act all uppity. If you treat them with respect and as if you are one in the same with them - just trying to help a poor animal - they are likely to treat you the same way back.

However - and this is important - I am in no way telling you to go back! Trust your best judgement since it has served so well in the past. It is obviously not a good neighborhood, but I've learned that a lot of our fears are brought on by our own ignorance and is usually brought on by years of conditioning by society. For the most part, these are just regular people who are trying to live their lives the best they know how. I don't think they would intentionally hurt a young girl who is just trying to help an animal.....but I could be totally wrong too, so just be careful whatever you decide to do. Oh, and make sure that whatever you do, you do not go back alone!