Miami-Dade County Animal Services was granted permanent custody of the four dogs confiscated due to allegations involving animal mutilation and neglect

(MIAMI, January 27, 2015) – On Thursday, January 22, 2015, a Miami-Dade County Court judge granted permanent custody of the four dogs confiscated by Miami-Dade County Animal Services Department (Animal Services) from Lazaro Ruiz on November 18, 2014. 

The four dogs were assessed by shelter veterinarians and received intensive care and rehabilitation. The confiscated dogs are American Bulldog/Terrier mixes and are now available for adoption. The names and identification numbers for the dogs are; Xena-A1660976, Tara-A1660980, Jenny- A1660986 and Peanut- A1660979. Interested adopters can visit the Animal Services Shelter located at 7401 NW 74th Street, Medley FL 33166.  Adoption hours are Monday through Friday 10 a.m. to 6:30 p.m., Saturday and Sunday, 10 a.m. to 4 p.m.

A vigilant joint investigation, led by Animal Services and the State Attorney’s Office into horrific allegations involving animal mutilation and neglect led to the arrest of Lazaro Ruiz on November 17, 2014.

“This is a great ending to a tragic story, and a new beginning for these beautiful animals. They will now have the opportunity to be adopted into loving, caring forever homes,” said Alex Muñoz, Director, Animal Services Department. 

About Miami-Dade County Animal Services
Every year Animal Services provides care and refuge for more than 27,000 unwanted dogs and cats. Every day, Animal Services staff and volunteers work diligently to find life-long homes for these abandoned animals by facilitating onsite adoptions, hosting off-site adoptions at events and locations throughout the community, and working collaboratively with more than 70 rescue organizations who share in our goal of a No Kill Miami-Dade County. For more information, visit animals.miamidade.gov or call 3-1-1.

It is the policy of Miami-Dade County to comply with all of the requirements of the Americans with Disabilities Act. The facility is accessible. For sign language interpreters, assistive listening devices or materials in accessible format, please call at least five days in advance.