Chillicothe, OH – December 25, 2024 – A timely response by local authorities led to the rescue of three pit bulls left inside a U-Haul truck for over 24 hours at the Holiday Inn on East Main Street.
Officer Tatyana Myers was dispatched to the scene late Christmas night after a concerned caller, Gladys Walters, reported the suspicious vehicle with the dogs inside. Upon arrival, Officer Myers found the U-Haul parked in the lot, with the two dogs inside showing signs of distress, including feces on the front seat.
Walters informed Officer Myers that the U-Haul had been there for more than a day and mentioned having seen a truck that came by to feed the animals, although she was unable to get a license plate. Officer Myers assured Walters that the dogs were being fed and watered but noted that if the vehicle needed to be towed, that decision would require further action.
After a brief discussion, Walters contacted her supervisor, who approved the towing of the vehicle. Officer Myers then arranged for the on-call dog warden, Ryan Waits, to assess the situation due to the living conditions of the animals.
While awaiting the arrival of the towing service, Walters reported that she had reached out to U-Haul, and they would send someone to retrieve the vehicle. Officer Myers advised Waits that the U-Haul was locked but that a representative would be on-site to provide access.
As the situation unfolded, the Ross County Sheriff’s Office reported detaining a man named Benjamin Browning, who claimed to have dogs in a U-Haul in Chillicothe. Officer Myers relayed this information to Waits and provided him with the deputy’s contact number.
Michelle Price, identifying herself as a co-owner of the dogs, also reached out for information about their welfare. Officer Myers connected Price with Waits for further communication regarding the situation.
Ultimately, Waits was able to retrieve the dogs from the vehicle, discovering a third dog in a cage in the back of the U-Haul. The dogs were taken into custody for their safety and well-being.
The incident serves as a reminder of the importance of caring for pets and ensuring their safety, particularly during travel. The investigation into the circumstances surrounding the situation is ongoing.
