LAS Employee Leaves Injured Dog in Vehicle Overnight

LUBBOCK, TX — Lubbock Animal Services is investigating an incident where a critically injured dog was left in an LAS vehicle overnight.

According to a press release from the City of Lubbock, the LAS employee who responded to the report of the animal’s injuries picked up the dog on Sunday night, November 24. However, instead of following protocol, the officer left the dog in the vehicle at an apartment complex overnight.

Neighbors around the area reported hearing the dog’s cries from the vehicle throughout the night.

The release stated that the LAS employee attended to the animal and became quiet afterward. However, the following morning, neighbors noticed blood pooled under the vehicle. Assuming it was the dog’s blood, the neighbors contacted LAS to report the incident.

According to LAS, the officer involved did not follow the proper procedures for handling injured animals.

In a statement, LAS Director Steven Greene emphasized the importance of humane treatment for animals in their care. "The number one priority is proper and humane treatment of the animals we handle, no matter what perceived state they might be in. That was not done in this case," Greene said.

"The proper process is to bring the animal to LAS, into the clinic for a medical assessment, and, if needed, to euthanize it humanely."

According to the city's procedures, the officer involved has been placed on paid administrative leave as part of the investigation, which is standard protocol during active investigations.

The City of Lubbock does not comment on personnel matters while investigations are ongoing.

Updates will be provided as more information becomes available.