Abandoned Dog Found in Cage Along I-275 — Authorities Seek Information

iSkyNews and Media July 23, 2025

Photo Courtesy of Florida Highway Patrol (FHP)

By: Ciara Perez | Investigative Reporter | iSkyNews.com (ISC News)

Published July 23rd, 2025

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Abandoned Dog Found in Cage Along I-275 — Authorities Seek Information

TAMPA, FL (iSkyNews.com) — Early this morning, a concerned motorist driving along northbound I-275 near Bearss Avenue made a heartbreaking discovery — a frightened black dog found abandoned in a cage on the shoulder of the busy highway.

According to the Florida Highway Patrol (FHP), the animal was spotted shortly after sunrise and appeared visibly shaken but unharmed. The driver immediately contacted authorities, and the dog was safely removed from the roadside.

The FHP shared a photo of the pup, who has since been nicknamed “Lucky,” in hopes the public can help identify the owner or provide information regarding the incident. The dog, a young mixed-breed with soulful eyes and a clearly confused demeanor, is now safe and in the care of local animal services.

“Once again, Florida — we do NOT abandon our furry friends on the side of a highway,” FHP stated in a public release. “This is not only dangerous, it’s cruel and illegal.”

Anyone with information about the dog or its owner is urged to contact the Florida Highway Patrol by dialing *FHP (*347) from their mobile phone.

Animal cruelty is a felony offense in the state of Florida. Authorities are reviewing nearby traffic cameras and working with local shelters to determine if the dog was previously reported missing or registered.

Stay with iSkyNews.com for updates on this developing story.

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Florida News