Dog tied to train tracks gets new home

The Coachella Valley dog found tied to train tracks now has a new home.

Hundreds of families from all over the world offered to adopt Banjo, but ultimately a couple from Huntington Beach took him home Friday.

It was love at first sight for Jeff and Louisa Moore.

“I have no doubt in my mind that this is the perfect match,” said Jo Marie Upegui, Banjo’s foster Mom.

Six weeks ago, 10-month-old Banjo was found tied to train tracks near Mecca. Luckily the train’s engineer saw him and was able to stop in time. His owner, a 78-year-old man, was arrested but no charges where filed after police discovered he was senile and didn’t fully understand what he had done.

“I really just can’t imagine that we are supposed to be taking care of them not harming them,” said Louisa Moore, Banjo’s new Mom.

When Jeff and Louisa Moore heard Banjo’s story, they knew they had to do something.

“We saw his picture and totally fell in love with him. It was the most beautiful little dog we have ever seen,” said Louisa Moore.

Banjo’s story inspired so many people that the shelter’s website crashed and over 1,500 people offered to give him a home.

“We did receive emails from England, Puerto Rico and a lot of folks from Canada,” said John Welsh, Riverside County Animal Services.

A Palm Springs man even wrote a song about Banjo journey.

Ultimately Riverside County Animal Services decided Banjo should stay in Southern California.

“Everyone offered him so many nice places to live but this particular family is a 100 percent about their dog. They will do anything for their dog,” said Upegui.

The Moores don’t have any children and never leave their dog alone, taking her along even on vacation.

“I thought that was really important for Banjo because it’s been a scary trip for him,” said Upegui.

“Everyone knows Banjo’s story, but there are tons of other dogs that are also in the shelter that have an equally sad and touching story,” said Jeff Moore.

“Just can’t wait to get him home and start a life with him,” said Louisa Moore.

Banjo’s new family said because of all of the support he’s received, they will start Facebook page so people can check in on his progress.