In a search for justice and accountability for a case of animal cruelty, Pinal County Animal Care and Control has released details regarding an abandoned dog with hopes the public can assist in finding the person responsible, as reported by FOX 10 Phoenix. On the morning of December 30, 2024, a woman said to be from Florence driving a black sedan, left her dog in the shelter's parking lot before driving away, this at a time when the shelter was closed and after being informed about the requirement for appointments to surrender pets.
A frantic and heartbreaking scene ensued as the dog chased the owner's car, almost getting struck by oncoming traffic on Eleven Mile Corner Rd, meanwhile, the staff at Pinal County Animal Care and Control, was unable to immediately secure the pet due to its heightened state of fear, endeavored throughout the day to rescue the animal. The shelter confirmed that by evening, they had succeeded in bringing the dog to safety, now stating that it is "understandably very scared, but safe," in a statement obtained by AZ Family.
Concerning the emotional toll such incidents take on animals, Kim Powell from Maricopa County Animal Care and Control, not affiliated with this specific case, shared insights into the psychological impact of abandonment, "It's emotionally hard on the dog. You can sometimes see when dogs shut down in the shelter, they get a little depressed, they are confused," she told AZ Family. Additionally, Powell shared that while pet surrenders are not uncommon, proper and safe procedures exist for it, importantly highlighting the availability of resources such as financial assistance programs and low-cost behavior training that can potentially keep pets with their families.
As the search continues for the individual who discarded their bond as quickly as one discards inconvenient truth, the community's assistance is vital. "Abandoning animals is a violation of ARS 13-2910 A1. If you need help and need to surrender your pet please call 520-509-3555 and ask to speak to someone directly at the shelter. You can also email us at [email protected]. If your request is urgent PLEASE leave that information in your message or email," FOX 10 Phoenix noted.
