Man Identified After Video Shows Him Leaving Puppy in Mission Viejo
Man Identified in Puppy Abandonment Incident in Mission Viejo
Authorities in Mission Viejo have identified a man seen on surveillance footage abandoning a puppy outside an animal urgent care facility. The incident, which occurred around 3:25 a.m. on Friday, involved the individual tossing the small puppy over the railings of the facility and leaving it on the concrete ground.
In a statement, a spokesperson for Mission Viejo Animal Services confirmed that the man is also the puppy’s owner and has since been interviewed by investigators. The city has not disclosed his identity.
Animal care experts estimate that the female puppy is approximately 10 weeks old. According to the city, she is currently thriving and receiving "much attention and love" from shelter staff. After being found at the facility’s entrance, the puppy was brought inside for a medical evaluation, which revealed no significant health concerns.
While the investigation is ongoing, the city has not indicated whether the man will face any charges related to the abandonment. Officials reiterated that abandoning an animal is both unsafe and illegal, urging pet owners unable to care for their animals to reach out to local Animal Services agencies or rescue organizations for assistance.
