A dog has a bittersweet end to the story of surviving animal cruelty and being discovered and rescued by a good Samaritan.
German shepherd Argon made national headlines last year after discovering he was wandering around Malibu’s wilderness with his nose closed, but died this week after his second fight with cancer.
The dog was discovered in July 2024 by two rock climbers who noticed a sweet, stoic creature suffering from clear signs of abuse.
Viewers’ photos show German Shepherd found in a zip tie around his neck and muzzle on July 3, 2024 in Malibu Canyon. Viewer images show German shepherds waiting for rescuers in Malibu Canyon on July 3, 2024. A shepherd rests in Malibu Canyon on July 3, 2024, waiting for rescuers.
They gained the trust of the dog and were able to remove the zip tie from their mouths. They were waiting with him when the Los Angeles County Sheriff’s Department arrived on the scene and took him safely 250 feet above.
He was taken to a local animal shelter for treatment of starvation, dehydration and exposure to poison oak. Also, given the name Argon, it was discovered that dogs have signs of lymphoma. This is a diagnosis later confirmed by animal care professionals.
Local nonprofits are hoping that the dog will start raising money to cover the costs of treatment and hopefully find someone who left him in a remote area in the Malibu Valley.
He was eventually transferred to the rescue of a German shepherd in Orange County, where he became “a beloved guest” and “a model of heroism and strength of his followers.”
Argon, a German shepherd abandoned in the wilderness of Malibu, close his nose and is shown in this image on his happy day after his rescue. He died of cancer in March 2025. (German Shepherd Rescue Orange County)
Cancer treatment proved successful, and Argon was able to enjoy five months of “painless remission.”
He said, “Even adopting a great woman, I slept in a cozy bed on her feet every night.”
But sadly, the dog, who had cancer returned, fought, fight, refused, and refused to give up, was eventually too tired to continue.
His rescuers say he will be remembered not because of the pain and loss he endured in a tragically short life, but because he has a calm and generous spirit.
“His story is one of inspiration and hope, and reminds us that compassion ultimately conquering cruelty,” authorities said. “The last thing he experienced was love, meticulous attention and the knowledge that he was cherished.”
A portrait of Argon’s farewell, who died after his second battle with cancer in July 2024 after closing his mouth.
The person responsible for abandoning argon is still being sought by law enforcement and animal welfare groups. The $25,000 reward raised by a local group is available to anyone who can provide identification or information that leads to an arrest.
Anyone with information will be urged to call for animal defense at 415-879-6879.
Those who wish to honor Argon’s memory are encouraged to make charitable contributions in his name to the German Shepherd rescue in Orange County. The nonprofit organization funded by the donation focuses on rehabilitation and rehome of German shepherd dogs that faced past difficulties.
Click here for more information.
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