Man arrested after chained dog chokes to death trying to escape 35-degree heat
A man has been arrested after a chained dog choked itself to death while trying to move into the shade on a blistering hot day.
Keon Torrance Gladden, 23, has been charged with ill treatment of animals after his pit bull was found dead in a Montana backyard in the US.
A police report claims the dog was found in the yard just before 5 pm, bloated and covered in flies and maggots after trying to escape the 35 degree heat.
It’s suspected that the dog choked to death while trying to crawl to a nearby bush for shade.
Two bowls were found near the dog, but the food bowl was upside down and the water bowl was “dry and dusty”.
There was a nearby doghouse, however the chain was too short for the dying dog to reach it.
Australian animal welfare authorities continue to warn of the danger of leaving animals alone during hot weather
RSPCA NSW said it is vital that animals have constant access to both water and shade, as heat stress can develop extremely quickly in hot weather during summer.
“Owners need to ensure their pets are kept safe, cool and hydrated to avoid a cruel death,” RSPCA NSW Chief Veterinarian Dr Magdoline Awad said.
“If dogs need to be kept outside, a good idea is to leave a few bowls of cold water in the shade in case one gets knocked over.”
If you think your pet is suffering from heat stroke, please call an RSPCA veterinary hospital or your local veterinarian.
