Latest news with #GreatDane
Yahoo
2 days ago
- General
- Yahoo
WATCH: Cats reunited with family after rescue from burning Brandon home
BRANDON, Fla. (WFLA) — Two cats were rescued after a large blaze broke out at a Brandon home early Friday morning. Hillsborough County Fire Rescue crews said they saw heavy flames and thick smoke coming from the roof of the Caliente Drive home as they arrived shortly after midnight. Severely emaciated Great Dane 'grateful' after Polk deputies rescue her, Terrier sibling All residents had safely made it out of the home, but firefighters learned the family's pets were still trapped inside. Crews went into the smoke-filled home and managed to find the two frightened felines. Video showed the cats clinging to their rescuers as they came out of the burning house. Smiling faces greeted the animals, with one woman sharing a heartwarming moment with a firefighter as he returned her pet to her arms. 'Thank you so much, oh my God,' she said. Firefighters had the blaze under control in just about 15 minutes after their arrival. Authorities said the cause of the fire was still under investigation Friday. There were no injuries reported. Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed.
Yahoo
2 days ago
- General
- Yahoo
Severely emaciated Great Dane ‘grateful' after Polk deputies rescue her, Terrier sibling
POLK COUNTY, Fla. (WFLA) — The Polk County Sheriff's Office shared a video updating on the condition of Stella, a Great Dane rescued from an animal cruelty situation. The sheriff's office took custody of the pup on Tuesday, after her owner, Auburndale Public Utilities Director Bradford Thomas, was arrested and charged with animal cruelty. City of Auburndale's public utilities director accused of neglecting his dogs The 8-year-old dog weighed just 60.8 pounds when she was brought to Polk County Animal Control, half of the recommended 120 pounds for a dog her size. 'We fed her ourselves, and she was very grateful to eat a lot,' Detective Jacob Durrance said. 'Was not a picky eater at all. Like Mr. Thomas claimed she was.' In addition to being severely emaciated and in obvious pain, Stella was also covered in fleas, dirt, scabs and had swollen, infected feet. The sheriff's office said she's already gained 8 pounds in the few days she's been in their care, and is already looking happier and healthier. 'You can obviously tell she loves to be loved on,' Durrance said. 'She got a nice bath today and is no longer covered in fleas and flea dirt, but she does have a long road to recovery.' Deputies also rescued Bella, a Terrier mix they estimated to be around 18 years old. Bella was suffering from flea dermatitis on her back that resulted in hair loss. Both dogs are now recovering at Polk County Animal Control and will hopefully be up for adoption when they're fully healed. Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed.
Yahoo
3 days ago
- Business
- Yahoo
Unleashing Adventure: VistaJet Reports Rising Demand in Pet Travel and Reveals the Must-Visit Destinations for this Summer
202505_EN_VistaJet_SummerPet_HERO For Immediate ReleaseLink for high resolution images. Unleashing Adventure: VistaJet Reports Rising Demand in Pet Travel and Reveals the Must-Visit Destinations for this Summer Hong Kong / Singapore, May 29, 2025 – This summer, travelers may fully embrace holiday adventures alongside their beloved pets. VistaJet, the world's first and only global private aviation company, has witnessed growing demand for pet-friendly summer travel and a 17% increase of flight traffic in 2024. Top destinations for VistaJet flights traveling with pets included London, New York, and Nice. Through VistaJet's comprehensive pet travel program, VistaPet, all travellers – whether human or animal – are ensured to enjoy unparalleled comfort and care at 45,000 feet from simplified flying solutions to customized private dining, in-flight entertainment and more. Beyond safe and stress-free flights, VistaJet continually supports Members through a curation of pet-friendly travel destinations that are meticulously hand-picked for the ultimate summer getaway. 'VistaJet understands that pets are an integral part of the family, so it is only natural that they should be beside us to share precious moments together. With a team of over 4,000 aviation experts who pay close attention to every detail, we are committed to making travel dreams come true.' - Matteo Atti, Chief Marketing Officer at VistaJet VistaPet as a Tailored Travel Solution According to Euromonitor International, the estimated value of Asia Pacific's pet care industry in 2024 was USD29 billion and projected to grow at the highest compound annual rate of 4% from 2024-2029, almost double North America (2.5%) and Western Europe (2.1%). This significant growth potential underlines why offering solutions to care for animals is increasingly important. Since 2019, VistaPet responded to the unique needs and challenges faced when traveling with animals, through solutions designed in collaboration with experienced veterinary practitioners, coaches, dieticians, and groomers. The VistaPet program includes: VistaPet Pochette – a travel bag on board every flight containing bio-organic animal treats, water-free shampoos, soothing wipes and toys to keep companions entertained throughout the flight. Private Dining – Members can request a dedicated balanced menu to keep pets hydrated and healthy with a menu of fresh meat and fish or raw vegetables and whole grain brown rice. Fear of Flying courses – in partnership with The Dog House at selected locations to ensure flying with a scared pet may transform into a seamless journey. Based on VistaJet's data, dogs have emerged as the predominant type of pet passenger consecutively in 2024 and 2023. In contrast, the most distinctive passengers welcomed on board included the blue-tongued skink and Sulcata tortoise, both of whom have demonstrated notable enjoyment during flights. 'We were proud to assist a family travelling with their two elderly Great Dane dogs, a cat, and a large Sulcata tortoise in a flight. To ensure the comfort of all animals, particularly the tortoise, the heated floors were activated in the cabin to mimic its natural habitat, providing peace of mind to the owners.' - Matteo Atti adds. 'Paws' and Relax: VistaJet's Curation of Pet-Friendly Adventures VistaJet's Private World includes a collection of selected pet-friendly properties around the globe, to ensure traveling with pets is seamless, even at destination. Members can gain access to the most exclusive establishments through its global network of partners, encompassing 600 partners across 35 categories – from properties to yachting services, art to automobiles, and more. Premier Relaxation from London to the French Riviera Emerging as the top destination for VistaPet flights in 2024, London is a beautiful blend of heritage and modernity within arms' reach for discerning pet owners. As a Private World partner, hotel group Maybourne facilitates effortless travel with pets across iconic establishments such as Claridge's and The Connaught, where four-legged friends are treated like royalty. From plush pet beds to world-class dining and custom-made pet treats, every detail is thoughtfully curated for the most luxurious stay. Beyond the charming allure of London, The Maybourne Riviera stands out from the rocky peninsula of Roquebrune-Cap-Martin as a bright, modernist jewel in France, set against a seemingly endless blue sea of the Côte d'Azur. Members may craft lasting memories with loved ones, including pets, through a variety of complimentary experiences such as sunrise yoga, guided food tours, and curated explorations of the hidden treasures in Roquebrune village. Tropical Bliss with Four Seasons Hawaii Collection From world-class golf courses to white sand beaches and serene spas, Private World partner Four Seasons Hawaii Collection serves as an idyllic destination with multiple pet-friendly resorts across Maui, Hualalai, and Lanai. Surrounded by the serene Pacific Ocean, the breathtaking Hawaiian Islands provide a tranquil retreat for every taste with pristine beaches to lush bamboo forest trails where pets are embraced as part of the family. Travelers can also indulge in personalized activity packages such as exploring the quaint town of Hana, lava field hikes, and rainforest birdwatching tours. With guaranteed access to VistaJet's global fleet, Members can travel to the ultimate summer vacation. Offering unbeatable global connectivity, the iconic Global 7500 is the largest and longest-range business jet each boasting four separate living spaces, including an entertainment room and permanent stateroom. Flying up to 17 hours non-stop, VistaJet offers the world's largest fleet of Global 7500 with 18 aircraft ready to fly anytime, anywhere. -ENDS- Information VistaJet | press@ About VistaJet VistaJet is part of Vista — the world's leading global business aviation company. Innovating the industry for over 20 years, Vista's mission is to provide the most advanced flying services at the very best value, anytime, anywhere around the world. VistaJet has flown corporations, governments and private clients to over 200 countries and territories on the Vista Members' fleet of iconic silver and red business jets, which includes the largest fleet of Global 7500s. Offering the best aircraft in each cabin class, clients can choose the most efficient option for every trip. With a dedicated Client Services and Cabin team available 24/7, clients enjoy a fully personalized flight with seamless continuity from the ground to the air. Every VistaJet flight has at least one Cabin Host as well as two pilots in the flight deck to provide optimal safety and comfort on board. VistaJet Program Members have guaranteed access to the Vista Members' fleet while paying only for the hours they fly — a smart alternative to ownership and fractional VistaJet information and news at VistaJet Limited is a European air carrier that operates 9H registered aircraft under its Maltese Air Operator Certificate No. MT-17. VistaJet US Inc. is an air charter broker that does not operate aircraft. VistaJet-owned and U.S.-registered aircraft are operated by properly licensed U.S. direct air carriers, including XOJET Aviation LLC (DBA Vista America), JetSelect LLC (DBA Vista America), Western Air Charter Inc (DBA Vista America), and Red Wing Aeroplane LLC (DBA Vista America). Attachments 202505_EN_VistaJet_SummerPet_PressRelease_FINAL 202505_EN_VistaJet_SummerPet_HEROError in retrieving data Sign in to access your portfolio Error in retrieving data
Yahoo
3 days ago
- Health
- Yahoo
Bartow 'group home' where man was murdered was not licensed by state, being shut down
The Brief The 'group home' where an 81-year-old man was murdered a little more than a week ago is in the process of being shut down. The city discovered the renter was operating the home on Blue Bird Avenue illegally and without a license by the state. The 81-year-old suffered a violent death and was stabbed more than 100 times while he slept by his roommate, who confessed to killing him after just moving into the home. BARTOW, Fla. - The 'group home' where an 81-year-old man was murdered a little more than a week ago is in the process of being shut down. The city discovered the renter, Eddrena Thornton, was operating the home on Blue Bird Avenue illegally and without a license by the state. The backstory According to the Polk County Sherriff's Office, Patrick Benway, 81, suffered a violent death and was stabbed more than 100 times while he slept. His 19-year-old roommate, Moses Ojeda, confessed to killing him after just moving into the home. RELATED: Troubled teen stabs man 113 times at Bartow group home saying 'voices in my head told me to': PCSO Ojeda has been Baker Acted six times this year, according to Polk County Sheriff Grady Judd. "Moses said the person he stabbed and killed was a good person," Judd said. "He was just told he heard sounds, voices in his head to kill the victim." Dig deeper "[Thornton] explained to me that it was an independent living facility where the residents lived as a community versus being cared for at an adult care facility," said Trey Towles, the director of Code Compliance and Neighborhood Services. Follow FOX 13 on YouTube Thorton admitted the four or five residents living there would come from hospitals, state agencies, and would be referred by private mental health care entities. She was also charging the residents rent. The actual owner of the house, a real estate investment company based in Texas, had no idea Thornton was using the home illegally and is in the process of evicting her. "It's my understanding, based on my conversation with her, she did know he had mental health issues and that he was on medication for mental health, but she felt at that time it wouldn't endanger residents staying at that location," said Towles. What they're saying Towles said Ojeda had been referred to Thornton by a mental health organization and his mother made payment arrangements for him to stay at the house for at least a month. CRIME: Auburndale's director of public utilities arrested for animal abuse after Great Dane found emaciated "His mother told them you have to hide the knives," said Judd. "[Thornton] was a little unprepared for that statement. However, at the time, it wasn't enough for her to deny him access to the home," said Towles. "In my estimation he was a ticking time bomb," said the sheriff. What's next The city's case is currently open, and it will remain in a pending status until there's evidence the illegal group home is fully closed down. Thornton does operate and live at an adult family care home in the same neighborhood, which is properly licensed. There is no criminal investigation involving Thornton currently, but FOX 13 has reached out to the State Attorney General's office to see if they've opened an investigation. The Source The information in this story was gathered by FOX 13's Carla Bayron. WATCH FOX 13 NEWS: STAY CONNECTED WITH FOX 13 TAMPA: Download the FOX Local app for your smart TV Download FOX Local mobile app:Apple |Android Download the FOX 13 News app for breaking news alerts, latest headlines Download the SkyTower Radar app Sign up for FOX 13's daily newsletter
Yahoo
4 days ago
- General
- Yahoo
City of Auburndale's public utilities director accused of neglecting his dogs
AUBURNDALE, Fla. (WFLA) — The city of Auburndale's public utilities director was arrested Tuesday after the Polk County Sheriff's Office said he neglected to care for his two dogs. The sheriff's office said it was contacted by Auburndale police officers after they were made aware of a dog that was starving and in poor condition. Woman heard 'screaming for help' after possible barracuda bite at Florida beach A detective with the sheriff's office went to Bradford Thomas' home on Diamond Ridge Drive on Tuesday. The detective said an 8.5-year-old Great Dane named Stella was severely emaciated, had multiple abrasions and scabs, was covered in fleas and was suffering from severe pododermatitis, also known as bumblefoot, on all four paws. She also appeared to be in severe pain. The sheriff's office said records showed that Stella had not received any veterinary care since 2020, even though 'she was in horrible physical condition.' Bella, an 18 to 20-year-old Terrier mix, was suffering from severe flea dermatitis on her back with hair loss. A veterinarian who examined the dogs said Stella weighed just 60.8 pounds, which is about half of what she should weigh. Both dogs were voluntarily surrendered to the Polk County Sheriff's Office and taken to the PCSO's Animal Control facility for treatment. 'The dogs and their former owner will be getting the attention they need and deserve. For Bradford Thomas, this behavior is absolutely unacceptable,' Sheriff Grady Judd said. 'It is incomprehensible that someone in his capacity as a senior manager in a reputable and responsible local government would do something like this—starving and causing such pain for an innocent animal. We will do everything we can to hold him criminally responsible. We will also do everything we can to get these dogs healthy and thriving. They are off to a good start—we pray it's not too late and they respond to medical treatment, nourishment, and love.' The sheriff's office said Stella has gained 6.8 pounds since beginning treatment at animal control. Thomas was charged with animal cruelty and aggravated animal cruelty. Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed.
