Wendy Pena, a 27-year-old resident of Pomona Park, Florida, has been charged with animal cruelty. She was arrested on Thursday, November 5, after being accused of driving with a dog tied to her vehicle. According to police reports, Pena faces one count of aggravated animal cruelty, a third-degree felony.
A passerby alerted Pena after realizing the dog’s predicament. The passerby reported that Pena stopped and appeared remorseful. She allegedly stated she could not take the dog to a vet due to needing to pick up her children. Consequently, the passerby took the animal to a veterinarian.
The veterinarian found the dog with several deep, open wounds and severe trauma to its paws and shoulder. Considering the extent of the injuries, the veterinarian recommended euthanasia as the most humane option.
“Dog ownership comes with a series of responsibilities for the care of an animal,” commented Sheriff H.D. ‘Gator’ DeLoach, categorizing Pena’s alleged actions as “reprehensible.”
Sheriff DeLoach elaborated on the situation, noting the horror the animal must have experienced as it was dragged along the roadway. He emphasized the responsibility of dog owners to secure animals properly, rather than placing them in unsafe situations.
After her arrest, Pena was transported to the Putnam County Jail but was later released on a $10,000 bond. Efforts to obtain comments from the Putnam County Sheriff’s Office were unsuccessful.