A Texas man is facing animal cruelty charges after police say he abandoned his puppy outside a major airport when he was unable to bring the dog on his flight.
Authorities in Allegheny County, Pennsylvania, say the incident unfolded at Pittsburgh International Airport, where officers were alerted to a distressed dog wandering near the departures area late Friday afternoon.
Puppy Found Wandering Outside Airport
According to the Allegheny County Police Department, officers stationed at the airport responded around 5 p.m. after reports came in about a confused Labrador puppy running loose outside the terminal.
With assistance from people nearby, police were able to safely secure the dog. Images of the animal were later shared publicly, drawing attention to the situation.
Investigators determined that the puppy had been left behind after its owner realized he could not travel with the animal. Police identified the owner as 42-year-old Omar Perez, who allegedly abandoned the dog at the airport when he was unable to fly with it.
Charges Filed After Investigation
Authorities said Perez initially told officers that the dog had been left by an Uber driver. However, further investigation led police to conclude that Perez himself was responsible for leaving the animal.
Perez has since been charged with second-degree and summary animal cruelty, along with a summary charge of abandoning an animal, according to the Allegheny County Police Department.
The department confirmed to the Daily Mail that Perez, who is from Texas, was released after being issued the charges.
Officials also emphasized that similar incidents have occurred at the airport before, urging travelers to make proper arrangements for pets ahead of time. “Sadly, this is not the first time we’ve had this happen at our airport in recent years,” a department spokesperson told the outlet, adding that cases like this will be investigated and prosecuted.
Puppy Safe and Awaiting New Home
Police confirmed that the Labrador puppy is now safe and receiving care. The dog will be placed in a foster home as authorities ensure its well-being following the incident.
The department also acknowledged Patrol Officer Riley Tkatch for helping identify the owner and ensuring the animal was secured and cared for.
Under Pennsylvania law, the second-degree misdemeanor charge Perez faces could carry a penalty of up to two years in jail and a $5,000 fine if he is convicted. The additional summary charges could result in up to 90 days in jail and a $300 fine.
The case has sparked a strong reaction online after details were shared publicly, with many people expressing support for the dog and gratitude toward the officers involved.
