A French bulldog, rescued after being found malnourished on a Downtown Miami balcony, is recovering, and the woman who initiated the rescue has been approved to adopt him.
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The dog was discovered in a filthy environment without access to food or water, according to Miami Police. Following the circulation of a disturbing video showcasing the dog's condition, officers responded to the scene, leading to the arrest of the owner, Kevin Benjamin, a local DJ. He faces charges of animal cruelty with intent to injure or kill and has since been released on bond.
Now named Dior, the dog is currently considered evidence in the ongoing animal cruelty case as veterinarians with Miami-Dade Animal Services continue to evaluate him and document his condition.
Rosalicia Bernal, the woman who alerted authorities, expressed her feelings to NBC6, stating, "Terrible, bad, brokenhearted, and confused. I don’t know." According to Bernal, she observed the dog from her apartment for about two weeks as he was repeatedly left alone on the balcony. She noted, "I never see the dog... This is not right, but I see the dog only pee and poo on the balcony, never go out never walking."
Witnessing the viral video prompted a wave of calls to the police and animal services. Upon their arrival, officers observed the dog's ribs and spine visibly protruding through his loose skin, confirming he was severely malnourished and dehydrated, requiring urgent medical attention.
Neighbor Caterina Balzano remarked on the incident, highlighting that this situation is not unique, as similar cases of animals on balconies have been reported before.
At a recent City Hall ceremony, those involved in the dog's rescue received recognition, and Bernal was officially approved to adopt him. However, she will need to wait until October to bring Dior home, allowing him time to heal.
"Maybe I’m so happy, so happy with the community, Miami social media, people helping me," Bernal said. "I’m so happy I saved a life.”