Allison Lyn Gaiser of Kittanning, who is accused of leaving her dog at Pittsburgh International Airport while she boarded a flight to a Mexican resort, appeared in court on Monday. Following the hearing, she was held for court on all charges, including a misdemeanor count of animal cruelty, along with summary violations of animal cruelty, animal neglect, and abandoning a dog within the state. She waived her preliminary hearing, as per court documents.
The incident unfolded on August 4 when Allegheny County police were summoned to the airport around 5:30 a.m. after a dog was discovered unattended in a stroller near the airport’s short-term parking lot entrance.
The dog, a male French bulldog, did not have a collar, but officers were able to locate a microchip, which eventually led them to the owner, identified as Gaiser. However, they were unable to make contact with her as she had already boarded a flight to a resort destination.
Investigations revealed that airline officials had informed Gaiser that her dog needed to be placed in a crate for the flight. Initially, she attempted to obtain a boarding pass for the dog as an “emotional support animal” but was advised that the dog needed proper carrier accommodations. Consequently, Gaiser allegedly abandoned the dog in a baby stroller near the short-term parking area and proceeded with her flight.
Fortunately, the dog is reported to be doing well and is currently under foster care. Numerous individuals from both the local community and across the nation have expressed interest in adopting the dog, as his story garnered significant attention. However, the outcome of the case will determine his future home.
Both Animal Friends and county police have highlighted the availability of other animals in need of loving homes.
