The holiday season brought a whirlwind of activity for travelers, especially those taking to the skies. Amidst the bustling scenes at Des Moines airport, a heart-wrenching tale unfolded as a one-year-old pup was left behind by her owner.
This pup, now affectionately named Allie, is safe and in good hands thanks to the Animal Rescue League of Iowa. On December 29, Allie was discovered tied up outside Des Moines International Airport, leaving behind a distressing and alarming story.
Allie’s owner, Bigsen Charles, a 24-year-old man, initially attempted to board a flight with the dog. However, he failed to provide a proper kennel for Allie. In response, Charles left the airport with the dog, only to return alone and board his flight without her. Allie was subsequently found abandoned outside the airport.
Charles later explained his actions to the Daily Mail, stating that he left Allie behind to ensure he wouldn’t miss his flight. He mistakenly assumed that paying for the dog’s travel on the plane would include a kennel. Charles claimed he was unaware that he needed to bring his own and expressed difficulty in making the necessary arrangements for someone else to care for Allie.
A warrant was issued, leading Charles to surrender Allie to the Animal Rescue League of Iowa. Despite the traumatizing experience, Allie remains in high spirits, showing her friendly and sweet nature to everyone she encounters. Airport staff provided her with care, comfort, and attention until the Animal Rescue League’s officers arrived to take her in.
Tom Colvin, CEO of the ARL, expressed gratitude that Allie didn’t have to endure a prolonged wait outside, protected from the freezing weather of the preceding days. He also confirmed that Allie’s future looks promising, as she will soon undergo spaying, microchipping, and any necessary veterinary care. Once ready, she will be available for adoption.
The case is currently under investigation, and in Iowa, animal abandonment is considered a misdemeanor, potentially resulting in a fine of at least $105 and a maximum of two years imprisonment.
However, the most crucial aspect is that Allie is now in the safe and caring hands of the Animal Rescue League, well on her way to finding a loving forever home. It is disheartening to think that someone could abandon their dog in such a manner, but we take solace in the fact that Allie is flourishing and embarking on her journey towards a brighter future.