On July 23, 2026, Indianapolis Animal Care Services acknowledged that failures by staff to follow extreme heat procedures led to the death of a Great Dane named Stitch, who suffered fatal heat stroke after being left outside too long during kennel cleaning on July 1.
Director Amanda Dehoney-Hinkle said management had issued instructions to clean only one side of each kennel at a time and limit the number of dogs outside during extreme heat, but those directions were not communicated to the kennel staff working that day. Following an investigation, the shelter said its kennel supervisor is no longer employed and other employees were disciplined in accordance with their collective bargaining agreement.
In response, IACS has adopted new heat safety measures, including a written standard operating procedure for kennel cleaning when temperatures reach 85 degrees or higher or kennel runs are in direct sunlight. The shelter also now requires dogs to have access to water while outside, limits the number of animals outdoors during cleaning, and mandates 10-minute welfare checks. Dehoney-Hinkle said the agency is committed to improving communication, training, and oversight, while supporting staff affected by the incident and using the tragedy to strengthen care for animals in the future.
What policies and procedures can help protect animals during extreme heat?
Recognizing the Signs of Danger
Animals can quickly become distressed when exposed to extreme heat, especially if they are confined outdoors without adequate shade or water. Excessive panting, drooling, lethargy, vomiting, stumbling, bright red gums, or collapse are all signs of heat stress that require immediate attention. Heat stroke can develop within minutes and is a life-threatening emergency, making early intervention critical.
How to Help an Animal in Distress
In addition to contacting emergency services, there are several actions that may help if an animal is in heat distress, provided you can do this safely and legally:
- Move the animal out of the heat by guiding it into shade or a cooler area, if it is approachable and not aggressive.
- Cool the animal gradually with cool, not ice-cold, water on its paws, belly, neck, and body. Avoid using ice or ice baths, which can make cooling less effective.
- Offer fresh, cool water if the animal is conscious and able to drink, but don’t force it to drink.
- Increase airflow by using a fan while cooling the animal with water, if one is available.
- Transport the animal to a veterinarian immediately, if it is your pet or if you have the owner’s permission. Heat stroke is a medical emergency, and animals often need treatment even if they seem to improve.
- If the animal is confined, such as a fenced yard or vehicle, and you cannot safely reach it, document the situation with photos or video if possible, note the location and time, and call animal control, 911, or your local emergency number immediately. Laws about entering private property or breaking into vehicles to rescue animals vary by location, so follow local laws and the instructions of emergency responders.
Creating a Safe Environment
Preventing heat-related illness begins with providing animals constant access to fresh water, shade, and adequate ventilation. Outdoor enclosures should avoid direct sunlight during the hottest parts of the day, and pets should never be left in parked vehicles or confined in areas with poor airflow. Scheduling walks, exercise, and outdoor activities during cooler morning or evening hours can also reduce the risk of overheating.
The Importance of Education and Training
Pet owners, animal shelter staff, rescue organizations, and volunteers all benefit from regular education on heat safety and emergency response. Clear procedures, routine welfare checks, and proper communication help ensure animals are monitored during periods of extreme weather. Understanding the warning signs of heat stroke and knowing how to respond can prevent tragedies before they occur.
"The greatest of a nation and its moral progress can be judged by the way its animals are treated."
Community Planning and Government Oversight
Cities and local governments play an important role in protecting animal welfare by enforcing animal care ordinances, conducting inspections when necessary, and promoting public awareness about heat safety. Shelters and animal care facilities should maintain written emergency protocols, provide staff training, and regularly review their practices to ensure animals receive appropriate care during extreme temperatures.
What You Do Make a Difference
Every action, no matter how small, can make a difference in protecting animals, preserving nature, and creating a safer world for all living beings.
Who to Contact During an Emergency
Who to Contact During an Emergency
If you believe an animal is in immediate danger from heat exposure, contact local animal control, law enforcement, or an emergency veterinary clinic as soon as possible. Many communities also have humane societies or animal welfare organizations that can respond to reports of neglect or abuse. Acting quickly and providing responders with the animal’s exact location and condition can make the difference between life and death.
