Police apprehended a woman accused of stealing a donation jar from the PetVet365 clinic in Pleasant Hills the day after the incident, following reports of her panhandling nearby. Surveillance footage showed her taking the jar, concealing it under her jacket, and leaving the clinic.
The clinic’s owner, Dr. Ashley Smith-Miller, noted that the woman seemed aware of the jar’s significance, as she removed a sign indicating the donations were for the Daisy Fund, which assists local pets. Smith-Miller estimated the jar contained $400 to $500. She expressed her shock, stating, “It’s like a gut punch… to take from animals, an animal charity, I don’t understand how someone can do that.”
Local pet owners shared their dismay, emphasizing that it was low to steal donations meant for animals. Joey Fisher, a pet owner at the clinic, hoped for community awareness and action, urging others to speak up if they recognized the thief.
Following the panhandling report, police located and arrested the woman. Dr. Smith-Miller hoped the incident would raise awareness for the Daisy Fund, potentially leading to more support for affected animals. Donations to the Daisy Fund can be made through the Veterinary Practice Donation website, selecting PetVet365 Pittsburgh Daisy Fund from the dropdown menu.
