In New Jersey, pets rescued from abusive situations can spend months or even years stuck at shelters. For one dog recovering from a horrific injury, even getting put up for adoption isn’t an option yet. Trouble the dog has bounced back from a deeply troubling attack in early January: He survive d getting stabbed in the chest with a kitchen knife during a domestic dispute. Authorities seized the dog and filed animal cruelty and weapons charges against his owner. But more than two months later, Trouble is still at the Monmouth County SPCA. “The owner in this case has refused to relinquish ownership of the dog over to the shelter,” said Monmouth County SPCA Executive Director Ross Licitra. Because of that, the group is prohibited by law to put Trouble up for adoption until after the cruelty case is resolved in court. Officials say it’s a scenario that highlights how pets rescued from abuse can get stuck in legal limbo, adding to the emotional toll many have already suffered. “It’s really hard for dogs to decompress and relax. It’s always hard for us when a dog is stuck in a holding pattern, and we know that they are an adoptable dog who would, you know, be great in a home,” said the group’s director of operations, Amy Richard. Executives with the SPCA are pushing for new legislation aimed at moving cases like Trouble’s and others in New Jersey through the courts faster. “Prioritize these investigations in courts and to move them to the top of the list,” said Licitra. The SPCA hopes to have Trouble in a foster by the middle of the month, but even after that happens, the group is still financially responsible for all of the costs — which have already added up to several thousand dollars. “I was so sad for him, especially when he had to get hospitalized here,” said Juliana Ward. “He’s definitely not trouble, despite his name. He’s really cuddly, really mellow.” The SPCA is looking for a foster home that’s quiet with adults only, not a lot of visitors, and a fenced in yard. The group says Trouble is ready for a loving forever family, but has to keep waiting for the law to catch up. ...read more read less