Multiple police K9 dogs die from heat in Indiana after air condition unit fails
Police have not confirmed exactly how many dogs died
Your support helps us to tell the story
From reproductive rights to climate change to Big Tech, The Independent is on the ground when the story is developing. Whether it's investigating the financials of Elon Musk's pro-Trump PAC or producing our latest documentary, 'The A Word', which shines a light on the American women fighting for reproductive rights, we know how important it is to parse out the facts from the messaging.
At such a critical moment in US history, we need reporters on the ground. Your donation allows us to keep sending journalists to speak to both sides of the story.
The Independent is trusted by Americans across the entire political spectrum. And unlike many other quality news outlets, we choose not to lock Americans out of our reporting and analysis with paywalls. We believe quality journalism should be available to everyone, paid for by those who can afford it.
Your support makes all the difference.Multiple police dogs being transported from the Chicago area to Indiana died after the air conditioning unit in a cargo area where they were being held failed.
Nearly 20 German shepherds were being transported from O'Hare International Airport when the driver of the vehicle was caught in a two-hour traffic delay, according to police in Lake Station, Indiana.
The air conditioning in the unit where the dogs were being held failed, resulting in high temperatures that caused some of the dogs to suffer heat-related medical conditions.
National Weather Service data showed that highs in the area reached 91F the day of the incident.
The dogs began barking, which the driver heard after he stopped at a convenience store. He entered the cargo area of the vehicle and found the dogs in distress inside their crates.
Lake Station police and fire responded to the scene. Officers noted that the experience "took an emotional toll on all that were involved in trying to save as many canines as possible."
Jenny Webber, the executive director of the Humane Society of Hobart, Indiana, called the incident "truly devastating," according to CBS News.
She was present at the scene and said that protocol was not followed in the transport of the animals.
"I don't think any veterinarian would've signed off on their health certificate given the temperature and the exposure that those pets would've been under," she told CBS News. "Now I don't, however, I'm not even quite sure if they had any of the paperwork or any of the documentation they should've had."
Ms Webber told the New York Times that "it’s not safe to travel with animals when temperatures are that high."
She confirmed that four were taken to a nearby animal clinic, and that at least 10 of them died.
It is unclear exactly how many dogs have died.
"The driver left with four and the rest were decreased, and he left deceased animals and four live animals that I recommended be hospitalised immediately," she said.
She said some of the dogs had clearly experienced heat stroke, and noted that some were vomiting or suffering from diarrhea.
Police have maintained that the incident was not the result of neglect or cruelty, but a mechanical failure of the air conditioning unit.
Ms Webber said she is waiting for answers from the police department.
"It's very confusing," she said. "It's very disheartening, and I would like a call from the chief of police immediately."
Join our commenting forum
Join thought-provoking conversations, follow other Independent readers and see their replies
Comments