Dog found running around highways near Newark airport now safe at animal shelter

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A stray dog that spent weeks running around the dangerous highways near Newark Liberty International Airport is now safe and sound at an animal rescue in Bergen County. Affectionately named Monkey by rescuers, the small brown and white dog was spotted on heavily traveled roads in Newark. In a post on Facebook, Buddha Dog Rescue & Recovery in Blairstown said their team responded to the area to capture the dog after being notified that the animal could potentially be in danger. He was brought to safety and later transferred to Ramapo-Bergen Animal Refuge in Oakland on what's known as a "stray hold" for care and rehabilitation. "Monkey has found healing with our experienced dog kennel staff at RBARI following weeks of running the dangerous highways outside the Newark Airport. After a period of decompression, we are working with Monkey to overcome his fears," Ramapo-Bergen Animal Refuge said in an online post. Volunteers said Monkey is still a bit cautious of human contact, especially after his frightening ordeal, and spending what may have been weeks on the lam, avoiding people. The staff introduced him to CC, the shelter's office dog, and the interaction helped the pup adjust. "With CC’s reassurance, Monkey slowly came out of his shell, finding comfort with gentle scratches or in a safe lap," according to a Facebook post by Ramapo-Bergen Animal Refuge. "His play dates with CC were the beginning of Monkey’s socialization training." The shelter says the dog is curious, treat-motivated and adapting to human contact. Their ultimate goal, the shelter said, is to continue his training and socialization to ultimately prepare him for adoption. "