A woman from Pompano Beach, Florida, was arrested for allegedly abandoning her dog in an apartment for almost two weeks without food or water. Shaundra Ruth Burton, 38, faces charges of animal cruelty after deputies discovered the situation on January 31, 2025.
Deputies responded to reports of possible animal abuse and found the exposed dog, Journey. Witnesses reported seeing the dog weeks earlier and noticed it had become significantly emaciated. When animal control agents arrived, they found Journey extremely malnourished, with visibly prominent bones.
Inside the apartment, the conditions were dire. The floors were dirty, covered in feces and urine, and there appeared to be no belongings left behind that would indicate Burton would return. Investigators determined that Burton had left Journey alone starting on January 17, with no access to food or water for at least 12 days.
The apartment complex had previously issued a notice of eviction to Burton, noting that Journey had been confined without care. Burton claimed she was the dog’s sole caretaker and had moved in with Journey.
Fortunately, Journey was rescued and moved to a foster home, where it began recovering well. By February 9, the dog had gained 10 pounds, and ultimately, the foster family decided to adopt it.
Burton’s bond has been set at $10,000, and she is barred from having any contact with animals while in custody. She is currently held at the Broward Main Jail.
This incident highlights serious issues surrounding animal welfare and neglect. According to the ASPCA, nearly 1 million animals suffer from neglect each year in the United States. Public awareness and enforcement of animal protection laws are crucial for preventing such incidents. The recovery of Journey serves as a reminder that compassion and action can bring about positive change for animals in distress.
For more details on animal rights and resources to help neglected pets, you can visit the American Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals (ASPCA) here.
