PUTNAM COUNTY, Fla. — A 27-year-old Pomona Park woman was arrested Friday and charged with animal cruelty after law enforcement officials said she tied a dog to a vehicle, forgot it was attached and drove away.
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The dog died of its injuries and Wendy Pena is facing charges, according to the Putnam County Sheriff’s Office. The dog suffered multiple deep open wounds along with severe trauma to its paws and shoulder while being dragged on the roadway, the sheriff’s office said.
Due to the severity and extent of the injuries, a veterinarian recommended euthanasia as the most humane course of action.
A Good Samaritan flagged down Pena to notify her that the dog was attached to the vehicle, the sheriff’s office said.
Pena stopped and exited her vehicle, appearing remorseful the Good Samaritan told deputies. However, Pena stated she could not take the dog to a veterinarian because she needed to pick up her children.
The Samaritan then took possession of the dog and drove the animal to a veterinarian’s office for treatment, the sheriff’s office said.
Pena was booked into the Putnam County Jail following her arrest. She was later released after posting a $10,000 bond.
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