Couple leaves sick cat at Mesa hospital without paying, hits staff member with car

Mesa Police Department officers responded to a pet hospital in Mesa on Monday after a couple departed without paying for veterinary services. During the exit, the vehicle struck a staff member. The owners left with their sick cat, which had been admitted to the intensive care unit earlier that day.

Elana Gulla, the manager at EVE Pet Hospital, stated the couple arrived in the morning seeking care for their cat. She said the owners indicated they faced financial constraints. Staff performed an exam and basic lab work. The cat remained in the hospital while the couple left to obtain funds.

The pair returned later in the day. Gulla said they requested a payment link be sent to a third party. Before that transaction was completed, the owners took the cat and drove away. Surveillance video captured the incident.

Gulla went outside with a veterinary technician to photograph the license plate. As the vehicle began to reverse, the driver struck the technician on the hip. The car stopped briefly, and the technician moved back. The driver then continued to reverse and drove off. Emergency medical personnel evaluated the technician for injuries at the scene.

The hospital filed a report for theft of services. Gulla noted that police information suggests the couple may have provided inaccurate details to staff at the outset. The veterinary team is currently focused on the condition of the cat, which they believe did not receive the care it required.

Gulla said the technician was distressed about the animal's wellbeing rather than the unpaid bill. She asked other customers to communicate their financial concerns directly to staff to avoid similar situations. The hospital staff remain concerned about the sick cat's current status.

Anyone who recognizes the owners or their vehicle should call the Mesa Police Department at 480-644-2211.