In a sorrowful incident in west Houston, a dog was found dead from heat distress after being left on an apartment balcony with no way to escape the scorching temperatures. As per the Houston SPCA, the dog's death was a direct result of the neglect it suffered, having no access to food, water or shade. Detailed in a report by Click2Houston, a digital thermometer at the scene clocked in at temperatures exceeding 108°F, underscoring the extreme conditions the animal faced.
This case, which occurred on May 22, has sparked an ongoing investigation by the Houston SPCA Animal Cruelty Investigations team and Harris County Constable Precinct 1 for potential cruelty or neglect. "This heartbreaking case of animal cruelty is a painful reminder that heat can be deadly for pets in a short amount of time," Dr. Roberta Westbrook, Chief Veterinarian and Vice President of Veterinary Medicine, remarked in a statement obtained by CW39. Dr. Westbrook clarified that this tragic loss was "entirely preventable."
In light of the early onset of summer-like conditions in the region, the Houston SPCA has issued a stark reminder and an urgent plea to all pet owners. They underscore the importance of ensuring that pets have adequate shade, hydration, and safety during periods of elevated temperatures. Warning signs of heat distress in pets, including excessive panting, drooling, lethargy, and vomiting or diarrhea, are indicators that immediate action should be taken to cool down the animal, as per Click2Houston.
To keep pets safe in the heat, the Houston SPCA advises never leaving them outside in extreme temperatures, always giving them clean, fresh water, and keeping them indoors or in shaded areas. If you see or suspect animal cruelty or neglect, call the Houston SPCA at 713.869.7722 or report it on their website, as reported by Click2Houston.
