Deputies discovered 17 dogs inside a parked vehicle Thursday morning, the day after Hurricane Milton struck. One of the dogs was found dead, according to the Collier County Sheriff's Office.
The dogs were found around 9:30 a.m. after deputies responded to a suspicious vehicle parked at the Marathon gas station near the intersection of Davis and Collier Boulevard. Due to the poor conditions inside the vehicle, deputies seized the surviving 16 dogs.
Rebecca Thompson, Director of Development at the Naples Humane Society, emphasized the importance of planning for pets during emergencies.
"Having a plan as far as what you're going to do with [your pets] is vastly important to your hurricane preparation needs," said Thompson. "Just having everything you need for them is the best way to be prepared for the storm."
Thompson confirmed that the Naples Humane Society's Chief Medical Officer, the only forensically trained veterinarian in the area, examined the dogs to ensure they were safe and healthy.
“We were able to examine the animals after they were found on Thursday,” Thompson said. “We partner with Domestic Animal Services in providing care, and our chief medical officer is the only forensically trained veterinary professional in town.”
Thompson added that the animals are now safe and comfortable under DAS’s care.
CCSO clarified that the dogs were not abandoned, but the reason for them being kept inside the vehicle remains unclear. Officials have not released further details about the individuals involved, and the investigation is ongoing.
For now, the dogs remain under DAS’s care until the case is resolved.