A shocking case of animal cruelty has come to light after a woman allegedly drowned her miniature schnauzer in an Orlando International Airport bathroom upon being denied boarding due to incomplete paperwork. The 9-year-old dog, named Tywinn, was later found in a trash bag by a janitor, sparking a criminal investigation.
Incident Unfolds at Orlando Airport
Authorities reported that the woman, a resident of Kenner, Louisiana, was traveling internationally and was informed by a Latam Airlines agent that she could not bring her dog on board without the necessary health certificate and proof of rabies vaccination, as required by U.S. Department of Agriculture regulations for travel to Colombia.
Surveillance footage showed her engaged in a 15-minute discussion with the airline agent before taking Tywinn into a restroom near the ticketing area. Less than 20 minutes later, she emerged alone, leaving the terminal briefly before reentering, passing through security, and boarding her flight to Colombia.
Discovery of the Dog’s Body
The investigation began in December when a janitor found Tywinn’s body in a trash bag inside a bathroom stall. Earlier, the janitor had noticed the woman cleaning up water and dog food but was called away for an emergency. Upon returning 20 minutes later, they discovered the dog’s remains alongside a vest, collar, rabies tag, travel bag, and a dog tag with the woman’s name and phone number.
A necropsy confirmed that the dog had drowned. Authorities later determined that after leaving the U.S., the woman continued her journey to Ecuador.
Legal Action Taken
Law enforcement in Lake County arrested the woman on charges of aggravated animal abuse, a third-degree felony. She was later released on a $5,000 bail.
“This act was intentional and resulted in a cruel and unnecessary death of the animal,” the Orlando Police Department stated in its arrest affidavit.
Court records do not yet list an attorney for the accused. Meanwhile, the case has sparked outrage among animal rights activists, who are calling for stricter enforcement of animal protection laws.
Travel Regulations for Pets
According to U.S. travel regulations, dogs flying to Colombia must have a valid health certificate from a veterinarian and proof of rabies vaccination. These requirements are in place to ensure the safety and well-being of pets during international travel.
Sources By Agencies
