Florida K9 bit by venomous snake while helping FBI search for Baby Andrew in Everglades
A Florida K9 was bitten by a venomous snake in the Everglades while assisting the FBI in the search for Baby Andrew, according to the Pasco County Sheriff’s Office.
Deputies say K9 Phi was bit by a water moccasin, a dark-colored and heavy-bodied snake, while searching the Glades Thursday for any clues that could help find the missing newborn.
Officials said about two weeks ago that they would be ending their search for Baby Andrew. It’s still unclear why the FBI went to the Everglades Thursday or which area of the Glades were searched.
An Amber Alert for the newborn was issued last month after police say his father killed Andrew’s mother, grandmother and great-grandmother before driving off with him. The baby’s father, Ernesto Caballeiro, was later found dead from suicide in a wooded area in Pasco County, near Tampa.
But there was no sign of Andrew. The baby’s family is hoping he is still alive. Crime Stoppers have also increased the reward for information about his whereabouts to $8,000.
As for Phi, the sheriff’s office says the dog was taken to the vet to be administered anti-venom.
“His prognosis for recovery is good,” the sheriff’s office wrote on Twitter. “Please help us send well wishes K9 Phi’s way.”
On Friday, he was allowed to return home. Phi’s condition will continue to be monitored but he’s expected to make a full recovery in a few weeks, the sheriff’s office said.
The venomous snake that bit Phi is a native species in Florida and can grow to an average of two to four feet in length, according to the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission.
Also known as a cottonmouth, it can be found throughout Florida’s wet areas, including lakes, marshes and swamps though it sometimes can be found far from water, according to the agency.
While the snake is not normally aggressive, the FWC recommends avoiding it if you see one.
Anyone with information about Andrew is asked to call Crime Stoppers at 305-471-8477 (471-TIPS). Tips can also be submitted online at www.crimestoppers305.com by selecting “Submit a tip.”
This story was originally published February 28, 2020 at 11:00 AM.
