Abandoned Goldendoodle Adopted By Police Officer Who Rescued Him

The dog, named Jet Blue, was left at a Nevada airport by his previous owner who claimed the airline wouldn't let him fly as a service animal.

Published on Feb. 21, 2026

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A 2-year-old goldendoodle named Jet Blue was allegedly abandoned by his previous owner at Harry Reid Airport in Paradise, Nevada. The owner was arrested on charges of animal abandonment and resisting arrest after leaving the dog tied up at the airport. Jet Blue was taken in by Animal Protective Services and then transferred to Retriever Rescue of Las Vegas, where he was eventually adopted by LVMPD Officer Skeeter Black, who had helped rescue him.

Why it matters

This case highlights the growing issue of pet abandonment, which can have devastating consequences for the animals involved. It also showcases the importance of community partnerships and compassionate law enforcement in addressing animal welfare concerns.

The details

The previous owner of Jet Blue was accused of abandoning the dog at the airport after failing to complete online documentation so the dog could travel as a service animal. Video footage showed the owner leaving the dog tied up at the airport before proceeding to her departure gate. When confronted by police, the owner claimed the airline would not allow her to fly with the dog and that it had a tracking device, implying it was acceptable to leave the animal behind. The owner became hostile and resisted officers' attempts to restrain her.

  • On February 2, 2026, the previous owner allegedly abandoned Jet Blue at Harry Reid Airport.
  • The previous owner was arrested earlier this month on charges of animal abandonment and resisting arrest.

The players

Jet Blue

A 2-year-old goldendoodle who was allegedly abandoned by his previous owner at Harry Reid Airport in Paradise, Nevada.

LVMPD Officer Skeeter Black

The Las Vegas Metropolitan Police Department officer who helped rescue Jet Blue and later adopted him.

Retriever Rescue of Las Vegas

The rescue organization that took in Jet Blue after he was transferred from Animal Protective Services.

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What they’re saying

“What began as a heartbreaking act of abandonment has turned into a powerful example of compassion, teamwork, and community partnership.”

— Las Vegas Metropolitan Police Department (huffpost.com)

“He is affectionate, gentle, and incredibly social. He greets everyone with trust and warmth, which is honestly remarkable given what he went through.”

— Danielle Roth, Spokesperson, Retriever Rescue of Las Vegas (huffpost.com)

What’s next

The judge will decide on Tuesday whether to allow the previous owner to be released on bail.

The takeaway

This case highlights the importance of responsible pet ownership and the need for stronger laws and enforcement to prevent animal abandonment. It also demonstrates the positive impact that compassionate law enforcement and community partnerships can have in addressing animal welfare issues.