11/01/2025
Pluto’s Story: A Reminder of Why Timely Care Matters
Early this year, we received a call from an owner who said her dog was sick and that she wanted to surrender him. The dog, a goldendoodle named Pluto, had been left outside in the cold for several days. When he was finally brought inside, his owner noticed that he was lethargic and unwilling to eat. Instead of seeking help right away, she confined him to a crate for several more days as his condition continued to worsen.
By the time she reached out for help, it was too late.
When Pluto entered our care, he was severely matted, emaciated, too weak to stand, and covered in his own f***s and urine. The Animal Control Officer rushed him to the emergency veterinarian, where it was clear that he had been suffering for weeks without proper care. Pluto was profoundly dehydrated, ate ravenously, and had urine scalding and a painful pressure sore on his right side. Despite the medical team’s efforts, his suffering was too great, and the only humane decision was to end his pain through euthanasia.
Pluto’s owner, Danisha Campbell, was charged and recently convicted under Kentucky’s felony torture statute—Ethan’s Law. The updated language now includes animals that are restrained and denied life-saving medical care. This marks the second conviction in Fayette County since these legal enhancements took effect.
Although Pluto could not be saved, we hope his story serves as a powerful reminder to others. If you notice your animal is sick or in distress, please seek veterinary care immediately. Waiting too long can mean the difference between life and death. Our pets rely on us to provide for their most basic needs—and failing to do so is not only unfair, it is criminal.
If you see an animal in need, would like to request a welfare check, or witness an act of abuse, please call our dispatcher at 859-255-9033.
