A woman abandoned her pet dog in an airport car park after being told it couldn’t come on the flight - despite her claims it was an ‘emotional support’ animal.
The bulldog, thought to be around seven years old, was found unattended in a stroller at Pittsburgh International Airport, with Allegheny County Police Department called to the scene at around 5.30am on 4 August.
Sgt Jason Donaldson told WTAE-TV that its owner was a woman flying to a resort who pretended the dog was an emotional support pet.
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However, airport officials were unconvinced by her story and told her the dog had to be placed inside a crate in order to fly.
While police officers found a microchip on the pet, they weren’t able to get in touch with the owner - who they say is now expected to face a charge of animal abandonment.
Thankfully, Donaldson said the dog was in good health and is currently being kept at a local animal shelter.
According to WTAE reporter Mike Valente, an airport worker who spotted the dog also told the news outlet that a TSA agent ‘took good care’ of the dog after he was found.
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Posting a photo of the dog on Twitter, Allegheny County PD said: "Don’t leave your pets behind! This morning at approximately 5:30 a.m., ACPD officers working at Pittsburgh International Airport were called to assist with a dog that was found unattended in a stroller on airport property.
"Officers were able to locate a microchip on the animal but attempts to reach the owner were unsuccessful. Investigators learned the dog’s owner was told by airline officials the dog needed to be placed in a crate in order to fly.
"The investigation revealed the owner then abandoned the dog near short-term parking and proceeded to board a flight. Police contacted the state dog warden to safely turn over the dog. A charge of animal abandonment is expected to be filed against the owner by the dog warden."
Many people commented to praise the efforts of all those involved in the dog’s rescue, with one writing: “What a cute baby. Thank you for saving this soul."
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Someone else said: “Poor baby, I’d rescue that lovey in a second!!! Shame on that human owner, don’t ever get a pet again!!!”
Another added: “This is the best thing that could have ever happened to that baby. Now it has a chance to find a real home and to be loved.”
A fourth also wrote: “Look at how adorable he is. You have to be heartless to abandon him like that. Some people suck and truly hope they file charges against whoever left him there."
Jess Hardiman