Jason Hershman, Owner Of Doggie Daycare, Charged With Animal Cruelty. Attorney Calls Injury To “Cosmo” An “Accident.”
DELRAY BEACH, FL (BocaNewsNow.com) (Copyright © 2025 MetroDesk Media, LLC) –An attorney for “Wanderlust Dogs” in Delray Beach Saturday morning told BocaNewsNow.com that animal abuse charges filed by the Palm Beach County Sheriff’s Office against the doggie daycare’s owner are “shocking, untrue and heartbreaking.”
Attorney Adam Rossen the incident that led to owner Jason Hershman’s arrest were isolated and an accident.
For complete context, we are publishing the statement issued by police in the moments following Hershman’s arrest. The complete statement from the attorney for Wanderlust Dogs follows.
POLICE STATEMENT: “The PBSO Animal Crimes Unit conducted an investigation into allegations of aggravated animal cruelty involving Jason Hershman, owner of canine daycare facility Wanderlust Dogs in Delray Beach. The investigation began after Palm Beach County Animal Care and Control (ACC) received multiple complaints from employees reporting that Hershman had a history of physically striking dogs, including a significant incident on May 8, 2025 involving a miniature poodle puppy named Cosmo.
An investigation began and revealed that Cosmo was healthy immediately before being left alone with Hershman, after which staff heard a loud cry and found the puppy bleeding from the mouth, shaking, and unable to stand normally.”
Veterinary examinations conducted in the days following the incident documented a fractured premolar and a right-sided mandibular fracture requiring multiple surgeries. Both the treating veterinarian and a veterinary dental surgeon specialist independently concluded Cosmos injuries were caused by significant blunt force trauma.
The investigation findings determined that Cosmo suffered severe and unnecessary pain as a result of Hershman’s actions. Probable cause was established to charge Hershman with aggravate animal cruelty pursuant to FSS 828.12(2). Today, December 17, 2025, Hershman was taken into custody and transported to the PBC main jail.”
DOG DAYCARE CENTER RESPONSE: Attorney Adam Rossen, representing Wanderlust, issued this statement on Saturday: “At Wanderlust Dogs, the safety and well-being of every dog entrusted to us is our highest priority and our commitment to safety, respect and compassionate care guides everything we do. Any injury to an animal in our care is deeply upsetting and we take it very seriously.
The incident that occurred seven months ago was an isolated, accidental injury with no intentional harm. Upon discovering the injury, our team promptly contacted the owner, and when veterinary care was needed, our founder worked closely with the owner to ensure all related expenses were covered. We are thankful that Cosmo has since fully healed and is doing well.
While the claims put forth are shocking, untrue and heartbreaking, we are confident the truth will come out during the legal process. We are grateful for our employees and clients who continue to reach out with support and remain focused on the safety and well-being of every dog in our care.” – A Spokesperson for Wanderlust Dogs
We believe this perspective is important and helps provide a more complete understanding of the situation. Thank you for your consideration.”
