A Mound Street eviction turned into a case of possible animal neglect after the former residents left—but didn’t take everything with them. Namely, the family dog.
🚨 Around 1:30 p.m., officers were dispatched after a concerned caller reported that evicted tenants left a dog behind when they cleared out of the home. The property owner said they were unable to get inside for a scheduled inspection, raising more red flags.
👮 When officers arrived, they found a dog still at the scene. Thankfully, the animal didn’t appear to be in immediate distress or malnourished, but police weren’t about to just walk away. They notified animal control, who will be following up to ensure the dog is properly cared for.
❌ Why You Should NEVER Leave a Pet Behind
Abandoning an animal—even “just for a day or two”—isn’t just heartless, it’s dangerous and illegal. Pets depend on us for everything: food, water, shelter, and safety. Walking away from them leaves them vulnerable to:
- 🚫 Dehydration and starvation
- 🌡️ Extreme heat or cold
- 😢 Emotional distress and trauma
- 💀 In some cases, death
And yes, abandoning a pet is a crime in Ohio, and you can be charged with animal cruelty or neglect.
🐾 What To Do If You See a Pet Left Behind
Think something isn’t right? Here’s how to handle it:
- 👀 Observe safely – don’t enter the property, but look for signs of distress
- 📸 Take photos or video if you can do so safely
- 📞 Call local law enforcement or animal control – just like this caller did
- ⏱️ Act quickly – time matters when animals are left alone
This latest call serves as an important reminder: pets are family—not furniture. If you’re moving, evicted, or overwhelmed, there are resources available to help rehome animals safely. Leaving them behind should never be an option.