MIAMI, FL—Richard Andino, 39, faces charges for practicing veterinary medicine without a license after a tragic incident resulted in the death of a litter of puppies. The arrest occurred on Monday in Miami, Florida, following a distressing event on Christmas Eve 2023.
Miami-Dade Police Department officers were alerted by two witnesses who had entrusted their pregnant mixed-breed dog to Andino, believing he was a licensed veterinarian. According to a probable cause affidavit, the witnesses were initially misled by Andino’s claim of his professional status and his attire resembling nurse’s scrubs.
The situation unfolded at Andino’s residence on SW 121st Avenue, where the witnesses expected to visit an animal hospital. They became skeptical upon realizing the setting was a home. Despite their doubts, due to the urgent need for a C-section as their dog was in labor, they proceeded to trust Andino after he reassured them he would transport the dog to a hospital for delivery.
Tragically, the procedure led to the loss of all puppies involved. This incident has led to Andino’s arrest and he now faces legal consequences for his actions.