The San Bernardino community is rallying together to locate a missing dog after a suspect broke into the city’s animal shelter and set all the dogs free. While most of the animals have been recovered, one small dog, a cream-colored Chihuahua named Louise, remains missing.
The break-in occurred in the early morning hours of Thursday, Feb. 27, according to a statement from the San Bernardino City Animal Shelter. Authorities say a suspect forcibly entered the facility and used bolt cutters to open the cages, allowing the dogs to escape.
Surveillance footage from the area showed the suspect calmly walking out of the shelter with approximately eight dogs trailing behind.
Officials quickly responded, and law enforcement was able to track down and arrest the suspect. However, authorities have not yet released the suspect’s identity or motive.
Most of the missing dogs have been safely recovered. Disturbingly, four were found abandoned in a dumpster just a few blocks from the shelter. Those dogs have since been returned to the facility, where they received veterinary care and are now either available for adoption or will be soon.
On Thursday afternoon, officials located another missing dog, Thelma, just across the street from the shelter. Unfortunately, Louise, a cream-colored Chihuahua, remains unaccounted for.
The shelter is asking for the community’s help in finding Louise. Anyone who sees her is encouraged to contact the San Bernardino City Animal Shelter or local law enforcement.
This incident has left many in the community shaken, but the swift action of law enforcement and local residents has helped recover nearly all of the lost dogs. Now, the search continues for Louise, as the community works to bring her home safely.
