A deeply emotional case involving animal mistreatment has shaken the Lorain, Ohio community after a woman was accused of leaving her dog behind a skating rink and driving away while the loyal pet ran after her vehicle.

According to security footage from Lorain Skate World, a white Honda pulled behind the rink around 8 p.m. on Friday. Moments later, the vehicle turned around and left the area—while a dog, later identified as Leno, could be seen running after the car as it drove away.

For the next four days, Leno wandered the neighborhood alone, crossing busy roads and narrowly avoiding traffic. Residents feared he could be struck by a vehicle at any moment.

Local resident Emily Farley became determined to save him after seeing both the dog and the emotional surveillance footage.

“The video was heartbreaking to see. I don’t understand how people could do such a thing to something so sweet and innocent,” Farley said.

On the fourth day, Leno appeared limping in Farley’s driveway. Using patience, a leash, and four hot dogs, she slowly gained his trust until he finally came close enough to be rescued.

“I was determined to catch him so he could find a better home than he had,” Farley said.

Leno was taken to the Lorain County Dog Kennel and has since been transferred to the Friendship Animal Protective League, where he can begin his recovery and hopefully find the loving home he deserves.

Lorain Police announced that 34-year-old Ciara Roman has been charged with abandoning animals, failure to register a dog annually, and a rabies immunization violation. She was issued a summons to appear in court.

Cases like this raise serious concerns about animal neglect and responsibility. No animal deserves to be left behind, frightened, hungry, and alone. Thanks to the compassion of one determined neighbor and the support of the community, Leno now has a second chance at life.

Every abandoned animal deserves care, accountability, and a safe home.