A Pittsburgh woman, 38-year-old Christine Crowther, has been charged with aggravated animal cruelty and neglect after police discovered her two dogs suffering from heat stroke outside in nearly 90-degree temperatures.
Authorities responded to a call on Tuesday afternoon at a home on 44th Street in Lawrenceville, where animal control officers found both dogs in distress. According to the criminal complaint, one dog was found in direct sunlight, panting heavily, unable to move, and with eyes rolling back. Officers had to drag the dog into the shade.
Although water was available, both dogs were tethered and unable to reach it. Additionally, neither dog had access to any shelter. The area was under an extreme heat warning, with temperatures in the 90s.
When questioned, Crowther told police she left her dogs outside for two days because she had nowhere else to stay. She reportedly responded to concerns by saying, “a lot of people leave their dogs out,” according to the complaint.
Veterinarians who examined the dogs confirmed both had heat stroke, with body temperatures reaching 109 and 105 degrees Fahrenheit, respectively. The dogs were hospitalized and treated for their condition.
With Pittsburgh experiencing a heat wave, animal welfare advocates emphasize the importance of protecting pets during extreme heat. They recommend keeping pets hydrated with fresh, cool water, limiting time outside, and ensuring the ground is not too hot for their paws.
Signs of overheating in pets include excessive panting, trouble breathing, drooling, and a rapid heartbeat. Immediate veterinary care is necessary if pets collapse, have seizures, or experience vomiting and bloody diarrhea due to heat-related emergencies.
