Dog Found Chained and Freezing Outdoors Sparks Petition for Lifetime Animal Ownership Ban

In a disturbing case of alleged animal cruelty, a Rottweiler mix was found chained outdoors in Calvert County, Maryland, during frigid January temperatures—left without accessible food, water, or safe shelter. The dog, later identified as Jazzy, was discovered after animal control officers responded to a distress call in Huntingtown on January 16, 2026.

Sign the petition to demand a lifetime animal ownership ban and mandatory mental health counseling for those responsible.


Dog Discovered Entangled, Cold, and Unable to Move

According to Calvert County Animal Control and court records, Jazzy was tethered with a heavy metal chain that had become dangerously entangled around metal piping and debris, restricting her movement to just a few inches. Officers reported that her water bowl was frozen solid, food was inaccessible, and the nearby dog structure was cracked, damaged, and missing parts—offering little to no protection from the cold.

The surrounding area was cluttered with sharp objects and debris, creating additional safety hazards. Jazzy was described as thin and cold to the touch, with no dry bedding available.

This was not a momentary lapse—it was prolonged, dangerous neglect. Sign the petition to ensure real accountability.


Multiple Tethering and Neglect Violations Identified

Investigators determined that the tethering setup violated multiple county requirements, citing improper chain length, lack of swivels, severe entanglement risks, and failure to allow the dog to safely enter or exit shelter. Authorities concluded there was probable cause for numerous charges related to animal cruelty, abuse, and neglect.

Jazzy was removed from the property by animal control officers to prevent further harm.


Charges Filed, Court Date Set

The woman charged in the case, 58-year-old Paula Patricia Holloway of Huntingtown, was served with a criminal summons on January 28, 2026. Court records show she faces multiple counts related to failure to provide necessary food, water, shelter, and protection from the elements, as well as animal cruelty and neglect.

Holloway is scheduled to appear for a preliminary inquiry in Calvert District Court on March 23, 2026.

Sign the petition to demand a lifetime ban on animal ownership and required mental health counseling as part of sentencing.


Why This Case Demands Stronger Consequences

Animal welfare experts warn that leaving a dog chained outdoors in freezing weather without basic necessities is a serious warning sign. Prolonged tethering, exposure to extreme cold, and unsafe conditions place animals at severe risk of injury or death—and often point to broader behavioral concerns.

Removing Jazzy from harm was a critical first step, but advocates say it cannot be the last.


Sign the Petition: Protect Animals From Repeated Cruelty

Dogs cannot speak for themselves. When cruelty reaches this level, accountability matters. Permanent safeguards—such as lifetime ownership bans and mandated mental health counseling—are essential to prevent future suffering.

Sign the petition to demand justice for Jazzy and protect other animals from enduring the same fate.


To continue speaking up, sign these other petitions as well:

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