Authorities Arrest Florida Man After Dog Euthanized Due To Neglect

Cape Coral, FL - A Southwest Florida man faces felony animal cruelty charges after allegedly neglecting his dog's severe medical condition, leading to the animal's euthanasia.

Authorities say 61-year-old Oscar Alvarez was arrested on Thursday following an investigation initiated by a concerned veterinarian.

According to the Cape Coral Police Department, Alvarez brought his 8-year-old Shih Tzu, Titan, to VetNow Urgent Care on April 28th with a massive, ruptured growth covering the dog’s face.

The animal was in severe pain and distress, struggling to breathe, eat, or drink.

Veterinarians determined that euthanasia was the only humane course of action.

An investigation revealed Alvarez had previously brought Titan to the same vet in October 2023 for a similar issue, but declined recommended treatment due to financial constraints.

Despite warnings about the potential consequences of not seeking follow-up care, Alvarez failed to return.

Records indicate that Alvarez had canceled Titan’s wellness plan at a previous vet in June 2022 and claimed to have given the dog away.

However, the dog’s last visit in January 2022 revealed early signs of the condition that would later become life-threatening.

Alvarez was booked into the Lee County Jail.