A three month old puppy was found in the bathroom of a Las Vegas airport earlier this week, abandoned by an owner who felt she had no other options. A hastily written note left with the dog told a sad story about the domestic abuse both she and her pup were leaving behind them. The owner, fleeing a violent relationship, was unable to board a plane with her pet, and leaving the dog with her former boyfriend was not a good idea, as he had recently kicked the pup and given him a bump on his head.
The note reads:
“Hi! I’m Chewy! My owner was in an abusive relationship and couldn’t afford me to get on the flight. She didn’t want to leave me with all her heart but she has NO other option. My ex-boyfriend kicked my dog when we were fighting and he has a big knot on his head. He probably needs a vet. I love Chewy sooo much please love and take care of him. xoxoxoxo”
Chewy is currently in the care of Connor and Millie’s Dog Rescue in Las Vegas, and has attracted a lot of attention from people interested in giving him a new, safer home. He’s still healing up and has had a few accidents, but he’s lively and is preparing to find a forever home! Airport representatives have sent out a message saying that the airport is not the place to abandon a pet, as there’s no guarantee who might find it, or when. The pup may have gone unnoticed for some time or been picked up by someone crueler than the ex-boyfriend mentioned in the note.
Lori Nelson, a representative for Noah’s Animal House spoke with KSNV 3 News Las Vegas, and explains that there are other options for people leaving abusive relationships. She reminds owners that pets are just as much a part of the family as anyone else and should not be left behind. Noah’s Animal House provides an option for women and their children leaving abusive situations WITH their pets.
It’s impossible to know what exactly this woman’s situation was, that she would feel the need to leave her pet in the bathroom of an airport instead of with a rescue or shelter if she couldn’t bring him with her. However, Chewy and the woman are both out of harm’s way and hopefully off to a better start.
Domestic violence happens to people of any age or gender, and can affect the people and animals you love. If you’re a victim of domestic violence, you can call the National Domestic Violence Hotline 24/7 at 1-800-799-SAFE (7233). Live chat is also available at thehotline.org
Featured Photo via Connor and Millie’s Dog Rescue CMDR
