A Rover pet sitter in Boca Raton is facing animal cruelty charges after a dog was found with severe puncture wounds and a foul odor, authorities reported. The pet’s owner discovered the injuries after picking up his Belgian Malinois, named Abel, from the sitter, prompting an investigation by Palm Beach County Animal Care and Control.
According to a CBS 12 report, the incident began on September 15, 2024, when the pet owner used the Rover app to hire 39-year-old Jennifer Meeks to care for Abel. Despite clear instructions from the owner, Meeks allegedly ignored them, leading to the dog's injuries. Meeks contacted the owner the same day, reporting that Abel had developed wounds around his neck. However, it was only after taking Abel to a veterinary center that the full extent of the neglect became apparent.
Veterinarians at Calusa Veterinary Center confirmed, "Abel injuries and infection were the direct result of prolonged (several days) and inappropriate use of a dog prong collar while in the care of the pet sitter," according to CBS 12. The owner had specifically instructed that the collar only be used during walks.
The evidence gathered showed that the foul odor and wounds developed over several days due to the sitter's alleged neglect. Meeks now faces charges of animal cruelty, as per the WPBF report.
