Gracie, a small dog that was walked into the ocean by her owner, is recovering, according to authorities.
- The Spaniel lost consciousness after being in water
- Witnesses, rescue workers performed CPR to resuscitate dog
- Owner arrested for cruelty to animals
Marilynne Jones, 70, was arrested on Wednesday for cruelty to animals after she allegedly walked the Spaniel into the ocean at Ponce Inlet at the Lighthouse Point Park.
After 3 p.m., the Daytona Beach Shores resident allegedly walked Gracie into the ocean, where the dog eventually lost consciousness, the Volusia County Beach Safety Ocean Rescue (VCBSOR) stated in a press release.
It has not been determined how long the dog was in the water or how long it was unconscious.
By the time VCBSOR was at the scene, witnesses were performing CPR on the dog. Officers took over by applying “life-saving measures” on the canine.
Gracie did regain consciousness at the scene and was taken to a veterinary hospital.
“She is doing slightly better today, but is still disorientated,” said Senior Capt. Tamra Marris of the VCBSOR Public Information unit. “We will try to keep updates on her.”
Gracie has not been cleared to leave the hospital, but once she is, she will be taken to a local shelter, Marris said.
Pets are not allowed on beaches in Volusia County unless they are service animals, according to the county’s beach rules.
Jones has not posted bond yet, according to the Volusia County Corrections’ records, but Marris gave further insight into Jones’ reaction to authorities at the ocean.
“She seemed unaffected by it and wouldn’t answer our questions,” Marris said.