This petition comes from a deeply personal place in my heart and many others' who have watched in horror as innocent dogs have been callously abandoned amidst a crisis. The Miami-Dade Animal Services Shelter Director, Annette Jose, is currently turning away fosters wishing to help evacuate dogs from the shelter before the imminent flood hits. Rather than welcoming help, she is neglecting her duty to protect the animals and instead opting to leave them in cages to suffer. This goes beyond a simple lack of judgment; it unveils a deeply ingrained negligence and apathy that cannot go unpunished.

In this critical moment, the lives and well-being of these dogs are at risk due to the selfish decisions made by the person bound by duty to look after them. The Animal Welfare Act, a federal law, states that all animals in a shelter should receive appropriate care, including protection in case of disasters. Not abiding by this law is not only unethical, but illegal. So, we demand full and thorough investigation and accountability for Ms. Jose.

The heartbreaking injustices faced by these dogs remind us that we must stand up for those who cannot advocate for themselves. It is time to bring attention to the unsettling practices of this shelter and ensure that no more dogs suffer. By signing this petition, you are calling for the much-needed accountability of Miami-Dade Animal Services Shelter Director, and for the implementation of correct evacuation and protection procedures. Please, for the sake of these dogs, sign the petition.