A scared chihuahua dumped on an Arizona street by his callous owner has found a new home with a Surprise Police Department officer who responded to the incident.

According to Daily Mail, the two-year-old dog, originally named Benji and now called Kismet, was abandoned by 26-year-old Priscilla Galanos, who mockingly said "bye bye" before driving away in her red SUV on March 8.

The heartbreaking incident was captured on surveillance footage showing the confused pup desperately chasing after the vehicle. A Good Samaritan who witnessed the abandonment quickly rescued the frightened animal and brought it to local authorities.

Arizona Police Department Welcomes New Canine Family Member

The Arizona Humane Society stepped in to provide comprehensive care for the abandoned chihuahua. Medical staff administered necessary vaccinations, performed neutering surgery, and inserted a microchip for identification. Throughout his stay, shelter employees and volunteers showered the small dog with attention and care.

Surprise Police Sergeant Rich Hernandez expressed the department's commitment to protecting vulnerable beings.

The sergeant emphasized that helping those unable to defend themselves represents a core mission of law enforcement work. Their dedication to this principle led to one of their officers adopting the rescued chihuahua.

The police department has fully embraced their newest family member. While Kismet doesn't hold an official position within the force, Hernandez indicated the small dog would likely become their mascot. The arrangement allows the chihuahua to accompany his new owner to work daily.

Criminal Charges Filed Against Former Owner

Following widespread circulation of the abandonment video, both Priscilla Galanos and Logan Gambill, 20, turned themselves in to authorities. The pair now face misdemeanor animal cruelty charges for their actions against the defenseless animal.

Local resident Joanna Buesen, who witnessed the abandonment while walking her own dog, shared her emotional reaction to the cruel scene. She immediately attempted to comfort the confused chihuahua after its owner sped away.

Buesen offered this observation about the perpetrator's behavior:

I think that they had no remorse for their actions, and I think that is the telltale that it is malicious intent. I understand things are hard and things can be tough in life, but you don't have to be a soulless human. And that is just a soulless thing.

Rising Animal Welfare Crisis in Maricopa County

The Arizona Humane Society highlighted how this case exemplifies a growing problem in the region. Officials noted that Maricopa County faces an unprecedented animal welfare crisis. Their organization has experienced record-breaking numbers, caring for over 22,000 sick, injured, and abused animals in 2024 alone.

The shelter emphasized that abandoning pets is never necessary, as resources exist to help struggling pet owners. They encourage people facing difficulties caring for their animals to reach out for assistance rather than resorting to abandonment.

This situation demonstrates the vital role animal welfare organizations play in protecting vulnerable pets. Their intervention ensures abandoned animals receive proper care and find loving homes.

Why This Story Matters

This story underscores the importance of community and compassion in facing animal cruelty. It not only brings to light the harsh reality of pet abandonment but also showcases the resilience of those like Benji who find new paths forward through the kindness of strangers and official channels.

Furthermore, this account serves as a success story that invigorates the community to support local shelters and adopt pets. Each adoption story like Kismet's inspires more people to take action against animal cruelty and provide homes for needy pets.

The partnership between law enforcement and animal welfare organizations exemplified here paves the way for successful interventions and highlights the role of community policing in solving societal issues.

Chihuahua Finds Forever Home With Law Enforcement

The once-abandoned chihuahua has transformed from a frightened stray into a beloved member of the Surprise Police Department family. After receiving comprehensive medical care and emotional support at the Arizona Humane Society, the newly named Kismet now accompanies his police officer owner to work daily.

The department welcomes their unofficial mascot's presence, viewing his rescue and adoption as an embodiment of their mission to protect those who cannot protect themselves. Meanwhile, his former owners await legal consequences for their cruel act of abandonment captured on surveillance video.