Justin Long Stars as Charlie, a Neglected ‘Backyard Dog’

Desperately lonely and deprived of any attention other than the blows to the face that he regularly received, Charlie was exiled to a tiny backyard while another dog in the household was actually welcomed into the house—much to Charlie’s obvious confusion and heartbreak. After repeated attempts at intervention, neighbors grew so concerned that they set up a camera to document Charlie’s suffering, day in and day out, and his frequent miserable howling. Tragically, this is the sad reality for many dogs. Why? And for what? People get dogs on a whim and then decide that they are too busy or too distracted to give them the love and attention that they deserve and desperately need. Actor Justin Long gives a voice to Charlie, a “backyard dog” who represents so many others. These neglected dogs are left outside all day, every day, through scorching summer heat and freezing winter temperatures—when they should be treated as members of the family.

Dogs are social pack animals who crave companionship and a safe place to call home. Dogs who are forced to stay outdoors 24/7 suffer immensely, aching for the company of their human pack members.

Outdoor dogs are emotionally—and often physically—neglected. Often, “out of sight, out of mind” applies. Not only are they lonely and sad, they’re also often deprived of the basic necessities of life: food, water, shelter, and veterinary care. Inclement weather is an added stress in winter, when outdoor dogs shiver endlessly in the bitter cold and sometimes even freeze to death. In summer, these dogs are highly vulnerable to heat exhaustion.

When Justin saw the  video of Charlie being ignored and neglected, he wanted people to understand the plight of all “backyard dogs.” Join Justin and speak up for abused and neglected animals.

Remember: Dogs are depending on people like Justin Long and you to speak up and give them the chance for a better life.