Woman Arrested for Abandoning Dog at Las Vegas Airport

Authorities say the woman left her pet tied up at the ticket counter and boarded her flight without it.

Published on Feb. 23, 2026

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A woman was arrested at the Las Vegas airport after she allegedly tied up her dog at the ticket counter and left it behind when she boarded her flight. Security camera footage shows the woman arriving with the dog, having a brief conversation with airport staff, and then tying the dog to an object before departing. Police say the woman did not complete the proper documentation to fly with the dog as a service animal. The dog, a 2-year-old golden doodle/mini poodle, was held by authorities for 10 days but the owner never returned for it, and the dog was eventually placed in a new home.

Why it matters

This incident highlights the serious issue of pet abandonment, which can have devastating consequences for the animals involved. It also raises questions about airport policies and procedures for travelers with pets, and the need for better education and enforcement to prevent such incidents.

The details

According to the Las Vegas Metropolitan Police Department, the woman was confronted by officers at her flight departure gate and told she would have to return to where she left the dog tied up at the ticket counter. Security camera footage shows the woman arriving with the dog, having a brief conversation with airport staff, and then tying the dog to an object before departing. Police say the woman did not complete the proper documentation to fly with the dog as a service animal. The woman was arrested for animal abandonment and resisting arrest.

  • On February 18, 2026, the incident occurred at the Las Vegas airport.

The players

Las Vegas Metropolitan Police Department

The local law enforcement agency that responded to the incident and arrested the woman.

Jet Blue

The 2-year-old golden doodle/mini poodle that was left behind by the woman at the airport. The dog was held by authorities for 10 days before being placed in a new home.

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What’s next

The case is ongoing, and it is unclear if the woman will face any additional charges or penalties for abandoning the dog.

The takeaway

This incident serves as a stark reminder of the importance of responsible pet ownership and the need for better education and enforcement around pet policies at airports and other public spaces. It also highlights the plight of abandoned animals and the crucial role of animal shelters and rescue organizations in providing care and finding new homes for pets in need.