Overview
- Jason M. Hershman, 45, owner of Wanderlust Dogs in Delray Beach, was arrested this week and later released on bond on one count of aggravated animal cruelty.
- Detectives say Hershman admitted to staff that he punched a miniature poodle named Cosmo after the puppy tried to bite him.
- Veterinarians determined Cosmo’s broken tooth and fractured jaw were caused by significant blunt force trauma, requiring multiple surgeries.
- Current and former employees reported prior incidents of Hershman striking or kicking dogs and alleged efforts to conceal details of Cosmo’s injuries, including deleted internal messages.
- PBSO said its Animal Crimes Unit, formed in October, has reviewed 85 cases, pursued charges in 26, made six arrests, removed about 60 animals, and may seek to shut down the Wanderlust Dogs facility.