Dog zipped in suitcase found in Fayetteville dumpster; animal cruelty investigation underway

Written by: A. Smith

Published November 12, 2025 @ 1:43 PM ET

FAYETTE COUNTY, Ga. – A small dog was found zipped inside a suitcase and abandoned in a dumpster near Fayetteville Square, sparking an animal cruelty investigation.

The dog, a neutered male chihuahua–rat terrier mix, has been nicknamed Sir Racha. Authorities say he appears to be in good health and was microchipped, showing that he was previously adopted from a Fulton County animal shelter. Officials are now attempting to contact the person listed on the microchip to gather more information about how the dog ended up in the suitcase.

According to reports, a man who works at a nearby pizza restaurant discovered the dog while taking out the trash last week.

Fayette County Animal Control officers said the dog was so distressed that they could not immediately remove him from the suitcase. They transported the bag and the dog back to their office, where staff were able to safely free him and begin calming him down. Animal Control Director Tracy Thompson described the dog’s behavior as fearful but otherwise healthy. “He was very upset, which is understandable given what happened,” Thompson said. “We worked to gain his trust, and he’s now comfortable enough to be examined and cared for. Medically, he seems fine, but he’s still cautious around strangers.”

Authorities are reviewing surveillance footage from the area to try to identify the individual who abandoned the dog in the dumpster. Fayette County officials say animal cruelty charges are being considered depending on the findings.

Sir Racha’s case highlights the dangers of animal abandonment and the importance of reporting suspicious activity. Anyone with information about the incident is urged to contact Fayette County Animal Control.