Efforts to rescue “Bridge Dog,” a stray dog regularly found wandering around the overpass by Green River Barbecue in Saluda, have served as the catalyst for the formation of a new dog society in Saluda.

Pat Waring and fellow Saluda Dog Society members are seeking the help of community members to find the dog’s owner. In the process, they’ve gained strength in other group aims as well.

“As a result of his plight and our public posters, our advisory board has gained two new members – both animal lovers and one of whom was heavily involved and on the board of the Columbia SPCA,” Waring said.

Dog society members first spotted the dog in February huddled between two logs on Henderson Street in Saluda, according to Waring. Waring said Polk County animal control is trying to assist the group in catching the dog but the group remains concerned the dog might not survive.

Waring did ask that people not feed him or scare him off.

“We’ve got to know where he is and it could be worse for the dog if people feed him or try to capture him because then he could change his routine, making it more difficult to rescue him,” she said.

Overall, Waring said the group’s desire is to help animals within Saluda.

“Our mission statement is: An organization formed to provide humane aid and support to dogs and cats in the Saluda area by assisting with resue aid, facilities for temporary housing, locating permanent placement for the animals, food and health care for them…”

Waring said the group also aims to encourage the construction and upkeep of a dog park to allow dogs to exercise and learn socialization skills. Society members plan to participate in local parades and community events, as well as hosting fundraisers to get the word out about their efforts.

Saluda Board of Commissioners approved the request for a dog park back on March 14. The group had requested the use of city property off Chestnut Street for the park, which would include benches and doggie bags.

“[The dog park] that was approved was supported by over 30 folks here in town simply by word of mouth in just a few days time – it is amazing how many dog owners there are here,” Waring said.

If you can help the society with information about “Bridge Dog” or its owners, call Waring at 749-1332 or Betty Ford 749-2333.