A Pennsylvania woman allegedly deserted her dog at Pittsburgh International Airport last Friday, August 4th, after being informed by a gate agent that her pet had to be crated for the flight. Upon receiving a report from a TSA agent regarding an unaccompanied animal in the airport parking garage, officers were dispatched to the scene. Sergeant Michael Kuma of the Allegheny County Police Department stated that he found a brown and white French bulldog in a green stroller, accompanied by a dog bowl and a bag of food. Identified as Bandit, the abandoned seven-year-old French bulldog is currently being cared for by Animal Friends, a local animal welfare organization.
While Animal Friends CEO Kathleen Beaver claimed that it is not uncommon for people to abandon animals during evictions or in public places, it is the first time the organization has dealt with a suspected case of abandonment at an airport. Officer Kuma expressed his disbelief and mentioned that it is perplexing to imagine abandoning a dog under any circumstances. He admitted not understanding the logic or rationale behind the act. However, he acknowledged that there might be mitigating circumstances that are yet unknown.
Thanks to a microchip, officers were able to find the owner’s contact information, but its release has been withheld due to the ongoing investigation. Authorities were able to trace the woman’s flight and piece together the story by reviewing airport video footage and consulting with airline officials. However, it remains undisclosed which airline the woman used or her final destination. The abandonment of Bandit in short-term parking was in response to gate agents informing the woman that the dog needed to be crated in order to board the flight. The woman is likely to face charges for this unlawful act, although attempts to reach her have been unsuccessful thus far.
Officer Kuma mentioned that the charges could include animal neglect and potentially animal cruelty. The incident was publicized through a Facebook post by the Allegheny County Police Department, accompanied by a photograph of Bandit with EOD K-9 Officer Amy Ireland, who has experience with dogs. Following Bandit’s pickup by a state dog warden, the dog was handed over to Animal Friends. CEO Kathleen Beaver assured that Bandit is in good health and receiving the best care and attention. She added that the organization expects the dog to be placed in a foster home while staying with them. Animal Friends has been overwhelmed with offers from individuals across the nation to adopt Bandit, but their priority remains finding justice for the animal. They advised pet owners to make proper arrangements before traveling. Airline guidelines for flying with pets vary, with most allowing only one carry-on pet, typically a dog or cat, that must be kenneled and fitted under the seat. Some airlines, like American Airlines, permit household birds as well. Both airlines require a fee, and the kennel is counted as one carry-on item.
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