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Only one of several dozen escaped dogs remains at large.
SAN BERNARDINO, CA – The City of San Bernardino Department of Animal Services was the victim of an early morning break-in on Wednesday, February 26 at its facility, resulting in the release of dozens of dogs and the discovery of four escaped dogs placed in a nearby trash dumpster. Authorities were on the scene shortly after the break-in and a person of interest is in custody on unrelated charges.
At approximately 4:45 am on February 26th, 2025, police responded to an emergency call for an overnight break-in. The suspect, who gained unlawful access to the premises using bolt cutters, cut the locks multiple kennels, releasing approximately 25 dogs.
San Bernardino Animal Services staff were able to locate and return all of the escaped dogs to the shelter except for one, who still remains at large. Four dogs were found in a nearby dumpster, believed to have been placed there by the person of interest.
“We are shocked by this event,” said Kristine Watson, San Bernardino Animal Services Director.
“The safety and well-being of the animals in our care are our top priority, and this action put many of our dogs in danger.”
The four dogs found in the dumpster were examined by the Animal Services veterinary care team.
All are in good condition and are expected to be available for adoption within
a few days.
The remaining missing dog is a cream Chihuahua named Louise (ID #A576436), who is both spayed and microchipped. Shelter staff are asking for the community’s assistance to help find Louise and have initiated a social media campaign to spread the word.
“We urge anyone with information about the whereabouts of Louise to contact us. Her safety is of utmost concern, and we are hopeful that someone will recognize her and help
us bring her back,” added Watson.
For updates or to report any sightings, please contact the City of San Bernardino Department of Animal Services at 909-998-4000 for any information on Louise.
In the meantime, Animal Services is pleased that the security measures in place at the shelter led to the quick response by the City of San Bernardino Police Department and the Department of Animal Services staff and resulted in the identification of a possible suspect.
“The support from the community as word has gotten out about the break-in has been overwhelming,” said Watson. “There are so many amazing animals at the shelter, we hope this will inspire area residents to visit our shelter to adopt, foster, volunteer, or donate.”
