Video Shows Man Abandoning Puppy In Area Known For Coyotes In Mission Viejo

MISSION VIEJO, CA — The public's help was sought in identifying a man caught on surveillance video tossing a puppy through a shelter gate and abandoning it in an area known for coyotes in Mission Viejo.

The incident happened around 3:25 a.m. Friday near the Mission Viejo Animal Services Center, according to investigators.

The man reportedly drove a red four-door vehicle up to the shelter's gate before tossing a puppy through the closed gate and driving away, investigators said.

About an hour later, staff at a nearby animal urgent care facility discovered the puppy at their front entrance and brought it inside for evaluation, officials said. The Animal Services Center was notified and an officer responded.

Investigators believe the frightened puppy made its way from the shelter area to the veterinary facility on its own.

The puppy is now in the care of Mission Viejo Animal Services, where it is receiving medical attention and is doing well, officials said.

"This is a deeply troubling and unacceptable act," Mission Viejo Animal Services Director Brynn Lavison said in a statement. "There are safe, humane, and legal options for individuals who are unable to care for an animal. Abandoning a defenseless puppy in this manner not only endangers the animal but is also a violation of the law."

Animal services officials released surveillance video of the incident at youtube.com/watch?v=VOLuylWfrow.

Anyone with information about the case or the suspect's identity was urged to contact Mission Viejo Animal Services at 949-470-3045 or animalservices@cityofmissionviejo.org.