27-year-old Perry had visited the Brevard County animal shelter in an attempt to rid herself of a dog she no longer wanted. The shelter’s receptionist told her that they had no room at the shelter. At this, Perry asked whether the dog could be put down, to which the receptionist said the shelter did not undertake euthanizing.
Perry then stormed out and bundled her dog, called Neptune, into the boot of her car.
The video, shot by a passer-by, was forwarded to the Brevard County Sheriff. Officers decided that to post it on Facebook would be a worthwhile deterrent to other owners considering the same course of action.
“If you harm an animal in Brevard County, we’re gonna put your butt straight in jail and do everything legally possible to make your life just as miserable as you made that pet’s life,” Brevard County Sheriff Wayne Ivey wrote.
Arrest and jail
The Sheriff’s office later revealed officers had visited Perry’s home to discuss her motive for putting the dog in the boot. Writes Click Orlando, officers found the dog to be emaciated and in dire need of medical attention.
Neptune was removed from the premises and is being treated for malnourishment and dehydration at an undisclosed location.
“The abuse of this innocent pet makes absolutely no sense,” Sheriff Ivey added. "It can only be attributed to someone who has zero compassion for animals, and quite frankly, shouldn’t be allowed to even own a plant, much less a pet."
Perry was arrested and jailed for animal cruelty offences. She has since been released pending further investigations.