Abandoned Airport Goldendoodle Adopted by Responding Police Officer
A two-year-old goldendoodle, allegedly abandoned by his previous owner at a Nevada airport, has been adopted by a police officer who responded to the initial call. The Las Vegas Metropolitan Police Department shared an update on Saturday, stating, “What began as a heartbreaking act of abandonment has turned into a powerful example of compassion, teamwork, and community partnership.”
Arrest and Incident Details
The previous owner of the dog, named Jet Blue by authorities, was arrested earlier this month on charges of animal abandonment and resisting arrest. She was accused of abandoning the dog at Harry Reid Airport in Paradise after police said she failed to complete online documentation so the dog could travel as a service animal.
Video of the February 2 incident shared by police showed the owner speaking with airport staff at the ticket counter with the dog before leaving him tied up to what police described as a metal carry-on baggage sizer. She then proceeded to the departure gate, where police confronted her.
Owner’s Statements and Behavior
In bodycam footage shared by police, the woman can be heard saying, “I’m going to throw my bags down because I’m exhausted.” Police reported that when asked why she abandoned the dog, she stated the airline would not allow her to fly with it and claimed the dog had a tracking device—implying it was acceptable to leave the animal behind and it would return to her.
According to police, she then became hostile while being escorted back and resisted officers’ attempts to restrain her.
Rescue and Adoption Process
Jet Blue was initially taken in by Animal Protective Services. After a mandatory 10-day hold period, he was transferred to Retriever Rescue of Las Vegas. Danielle Roth, a spokesperson for the rescue, told People, “He is affectionate, gentle, and incredibly social. He greets everyone with trust and warmth, which is honestly remarkable given what he went through.”
After receiving thousands of applications, Jet Blue found a home with LVMPD Officer Skeeter Black, who helped rescue him. Black and his family had been searching for a goldendoodle since September and had been approved by the rescue months before meeting Jet Blue.
New Beginning for Jet Blue
Police announced, “Today, Jet Blue’s next journey begins this time, surrounded by the people who stepped in when he needed it most.” This adoption underscores the positive outcomes that can arise from community efforts and law enforcement involvement in animal welfare cases.
