Nurse Who Abandoned Dog at Pittsburgh Airport to Catch Flight to Mexico Pleads Guilty

Image sources: The Smoking Gun

A shocking scene at a Pittsburgh airport last summer turned national heads—and stomachs—when a registered nurse abandoned her French bulldog in a parking lot to catch a flight to Mexico. Now, years later, she’s pleaded guilty and avoided jail time, but the case continues to spark questions about judgment, responsibility, and the ethical standards expected of those in caregiving professions. Here's a closer look at what happened, the legal fallout, and most important… how the dog is doing.

What Happened?

In August 2023, Allison Lyn Gaiser, a registered nurse from Kittanning, Pennsylvania, faced national headlines after leaving her French bulldog (allegedly named Bandit) at Pittsburgh International Airport. Gaiser was attempting to take her brown-and-white French bulldog with her on a vacation flight to Mexico. However, when she arrived at the airport, airline staff informed her that the dog could not board the plane because it did not meet the criteria for an emotional support animal and lacked the required kennel.

After being denied boarding for her pet, police records indicate Gaiser was captured on surveillance video pushing the dog in a stroller to the airport’s short-term parking lot. She left the dog, along with some food but no water, near the moving walkway enclosure by the glass exit doors. Authorities found the dog, unharmed, about 40 minutes later.

Image sources: The Smoking Gun / TribLIVE / Allegheny County Police

Legal Consequences and Gaiser’s Explanation

Upon her return from Mexico, Gaiser was arrested at the airport. She admitted to leaving the dog behind, explaining to investigators that she had asked her mother—via text message—to “call the airport and tell them to take the dog to the local pound” and she would get him when she gets back. 

Police determined that no immediate arrangement had been made, and Gaiser’s mother only learned about the incident after Gaiser’s ex-husband shared a news story about the abandoned dog. Text messages show her mother said, “You will be arrested for dog abandonment,” and “You’re not above the law.” Mom’s often know best.

Gaiser recently pleaded guilty as part of a plea deal, which allowed her to avoid jail time. She was fined $150 and ordered to pay approximately $350 in court costs. The more serious charges of animal cruelty and neglect were dropped as part of the agreement.

PA State Board of Nursing records show Gaiser has been a registered nurse since 2001. Social accounts also indicate that at one point, she also operated a "heart-based business" focusing on trauma therapy. 

But How Is the Dog?

The story of the abandoned French bulldog understandably sparked concern and sympathy among animal lovers and the nursing community. The good news is that the dog was found quickly, was unharmed, and received immediate care. He was licensed, microchipped (tracing him back to Gaiser), and soon placed in the care of Animal Friends, a local animal welfare organization.

Animal Friends reported that the dog is doing well and staying in a foster home. The organization said they received adoption offers from concerned members of the public, both locally and across the nation, but have not released the current custody status. 

Lessons for Nurses (and Every Other Dog Owner)

Nurses, you’re the backbone of compassion in healthcare. But let’s not forget: pets need plans, too. If you’re ever in a travel bind, there are always better options than leaving your dog in short-term parking. Call a friend, use a boarding service, or reschedule your trip—just don’t let your pet become an airport lost-and-found story.

While this story may leave you shaking your head, rest assured: the dog is safe, happy, and likely getting more attention than ever. As for Gaiser, let’s hope her next vacation plans include a little more foresight—and a lot less drama for her furry friend, should she ever choose to “care” for an animal again.

🤔 Nurses, what would you do in this situation? Let us know in the discussion forum below.