Fort Lauderdale Woman Recovers Dog After Three-Week Ownership Battle with Rescue Organization

Maria Helena Lugo spent three weeks fighting to reclaim her dog, Coco, after the animal was brought to Sandy Paws K-9 Rescue in Fort Lauderdale by someone who had found it. When Lugo, a Spanish-speaking resident, arrived to retrieve her pet, rescue officials denied her request, citing insufficient documentation of ownership. The Spanish-language speaker eventually contacted Local 10 News for assistance in resolving the dispute.

Sandy Paws Canine Rescue faced backlash on social media following the incident, prompting leadership to clarify the organization’s decision-making process. Vice President Desiree Remington explained that staff had initially contacted the microchip’s registered owner, the dog’s original breeder, who had no connection to Lugo’s family. Days later, Lugo’s son called the rescue claiming the dog belonged to their household, but police advised the organization that additional proof of ownership was legally required before releasing the animal.

The situation changed when the rescue reviewed social media photographs that clearly depicted Coco with Lugo and family members, providing the corroborating evidence needed to confirm ownership. Remington stated that conflicting accounts had justified the organization’s caution during the initial claim attempt. The long-awaited reunion took place in Fort Lauderdale after news coverage of the case intensified public scrutiny.

Lugo expressed overwhelming relief upon recovery of her companion animal, describing the 15-day separation as deeply distressing. She stated that regaining custody felt equivalent to reclaiming her life, emphasizing the emotional toll the ordeal had inflicted on her family.