Animal services investigators in Mission Viejo said Tuesday they have identified the owner of a puppy seen in surveillance video being tossed through a shelter gate and abandoned in an area known for coyotes.
The incident occurred around 3:25 a.m. Friday near the Mission Viejo Animal Services Center at 28095 Hillcrest, according to investigators.
The man arrived in a red four-door vehicle, exited and tossed the puppy through a closed gate before driving away, animal services officials said.
About an hour later, staff at a nearby animal urgent care facility discovered the puppy at their front entrance and brought it inside for evaluation, officials said. The Animal Services Center was notified and an officer responded.
Investigators believe the frightened puppy made its way from the shelter area to the veterinary facility on its own. The puppy is now in the care of Mission Viejo Animal Services, where the dog is receiving medical attention and is doing well, officials said.
“Thanks to extensive media coverage and the support of the community, Mission Viejo Animal Services Investigators quickly identified the man involved,” animal services officials said in a statement Wednesday. “The suspect, who was also determined to be the puppy’s owner, was contacted and interviewed by investigators.”
Officials said the case serves as a reminder about the responsibilities of pet ownership. Owning a puppy is a long-term commitment requiring time, resources and care, and owners should take safe, humane steps if they can no longer provide it, according to the shelter.
“There are always options,” Mission Viejo Animal Services Director Brynn Lavison said. “Our agency is here to help. If someone is unable to care for a pet in our jurisdiction, we strongly encourage them to reach out prior to taking drastic measures such as abandoning a pet.”
Animal services officials released surveillance video of the incident at youtube.com/watch?v=VOLuylWfrow.