Mission Viejo authorities investigate abandoned puppy incident in coyote-prone area

Tue, 14 Apr 2026 19:25:00 +0200

Mission Viejo Animal Services is seeking public assistance to identify a man captured on surveillance video abandoning a small puppy near an animal urgent care facility in an area known for coyotes. The incident occurred around 3:25 a.m. on a Friday, when a man driving a red four-door sedan exited his vehicle and threw the puppy through the closed gate of the facility. Staff described the scene as heartbreaking, noting that the puppy appeared scared and disoriented but fortunately managed to reach safety. Surveillance footage captured the puppy sitting outside the entrance and attempting to get attention from staff around 4:11 a.m., who then brought the animal inside for medical attention. The puppy is currently under the care of Animal Services and recovering well. Authorities are urging anyone with information about the suspect to contact Mission Viejo Animal Services. Brynn Lavison, the director of Animal Services, emphasized that abandoning an animal is both dangerous and illegal.