Abandoned Puppy Adopted by Cop Who Rescued Him

Officer Skeeter Black adopts goldendoodle found tied to Las Vegas airport counter.

Published on Feb. 22, 2026

A 2-year-old goldendoodle, nicknamed "Jet Blue", was abandoned at Harry Reid International Airport in Las Vegas earlier this month after his owner allegedly left him behind to catch her flight. The dog was found tied to a ticketing counter and placed into foster care after the owner failed to claim him within the 10-day hold period. The Las Vegas Metropolitan Police Department officer who responded to the call, Skeeter Black, has now adopted Jet Blue, fulfilling his family's search for a goldendoodle since September.

Why it matters

This story highlights the issue of pet abandonment, which can have serious consequences for the animal's wellbeing. It also showcases how law enforcement and the community can work together to provide a positive outcome for an animal in distress.

The details

Security footage shows the woman walking up to the counter with the dog running behind her. She then walks away, leaving the dog's leash tied to the counter. Police arrested the woman for allegedly boarding her flight without the proper paperwork to fly with the dog. After the mandatory 10-day hold period, during which the owner failed to claim the dog, the rescue organization selected Officer Black and his family to adopt the goldendoodle, known as Jet Blue.

  • On February 2, 2026, the dog was found abandoned at Harry Reid International Airport in Las Vegas.
  • The owner failed to claim the dog within the 10-day hold period.

The players

Jet Blue

A 2-year-old goldendoodle who was abandoned at the Las Vegas airport.

Officer Skeeter Black

A Las Vegas Metropolitan Police Department officer who responded to the call about the abandoned dog and has now adopted him.

Las Vegas Metropolitan Police Department

The law enforcement agency that responded to the incident and facilitated the dog's adoption.

Got photos? Submit your photos here. ›

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 (Instagram)

The takeaway

This story serves as a reminder that pet abandonment is a serious issue, but also highlights how law enforcement, rescue organizations, and the community can work together to provide a positive outcome for animals in distress. It's a heartwarming example of compassion triumphing over neglect.