At the international airport of Las Vegas, a female passenger was arrested after an incident involving her dog. The incident took place late in the evening in Terminal 3, at the check-in counters of JetBlue Airways. Staff refused to allow the dog on board because the woman did not have the proper paperwork for a service animal.

According to police, the woman left her two-year-old goldendoodle behind at the counter and then went through security by herself. Employees noticed that the dog had been left alone and immediately contacted the police.

What exactly happened at the airport

The woman wanted to travel with her dog on February 2, 2026 via Harry Reid International Airport. She stated that her dog was a service animal. Airline staff checked her details and saw that the required online forms had not been completed.

The rules of JetBlue Airways require passengers traveling with a service dog to submit the correct documentation in advance. Because this had not been done, the dog was not allowed to travel in the cabin.

After this conversation, the woman tied her dog to a metal pole near the check-in counter. She then walked toward the security checkpoint of the Transportation Security Administration and proceeded without the animal.

Police intervention

Staff reported the incident around 11:39 p.m. to the Las Vegas Metropolitan Police Department. Officers found the woman at her gate shortly before departure.

When she was brought back to the check-in area, the situation escalated. According to police, the woman did not cooperate and became angry. She was ultimately arrested on suspicion of abandoning an animal and resisting law enforcement.

The woman reportedly said that the dog had a tracker and that it was therefore not a problem to leave him behind for a short time. Police emphasized that abandoning an animal at an airport is a criminal offense under Nevada law.

What happened to the dog

After the arrest, the dog was brought to safety and handed over to Las Vegas Animal Protective Services. The owner did not pick up the dog within the required ten-day period.

After that, care of the dog was taken over by a local animal organization. The dog was given the name “Jet Blue” and is now staying with a foster family. According to the caregivers, the dog is healthy and well cared for. They are currently looking for a permanent, loving home for him.

Rules for traveling with animals on airlines

JetBlue Airways allows service dogs to travel in the cabin free of charge. However, passengers must submit the required forms in advance. Without these documents, the animal is not allowed on board.

For regular pets, small dogs may travel under the seat in an approved carrier for a fee. Clear rules also apply regarding size and safety.

This case shows how important it is to know the rules in advance and prepare properly when flying with an animal.