Urgent Risk: After Chained Dog Dies from Heatstroke, PETA Shares Vital Tips to Protect Animals

For Immediate Release:
May 22, 2026

Contact:
Nicole Perreira 202-483-732

Richmond, Va. –

On Tuesday, a dog in Richmond died of heatstroke after being left tethered outside in 96-degree weather. Workers at Animal Care and Control reported the dog’s internal temperature at 114 degrees—the highest they’d ever seen—and criminal charges are reportedly pending against the owner. Last year, at least 142 dogs and cats reportedly died from heat-related causes—the actual figure is likely far higher, as most deaths go unreported. If we’re hot, dogs and cats—who can’t sweat as humans do—are even hotter.

Of important note: It’s illegal in Virginia to leave dogs tethered outside in temperatures above 85 degrees, and many cities have altogether banned keeping dogs tethered outside. Owners are also required to provide adequate shelter that “is properly shaded and does not readily conduct heat,” as well as access to potable water. Anyone who sees a dog chained outside in the sweltering heat should call authorities immediately (or PETA, if they don’t get the help they need). Anyone who leaves animals outside to suffer in severe weather may be prosecuted for cruelty.

A dog left outside on a heavy chain in the scorching heat in Virginia. Credit: PETA

PETA urges people to be on the lookout for animals who need assistance, including those who may be experiencing heatstroke symptoms, and advises everyone to do the following:

Never leave animals outdoors in extreme heat or inside vehicles at any time.
Walk dogs during cooler parts of the day and limit their time outside in the heat. Before walks, touch the pavement to ensure it won’t burn dogs’ foot pads. In hot weather, walk only in the shade, on earth, or on grass.
If you see a dog showing signs of heatstroke—including heavy panting, excessive drooling, vomiting, diarrhea, lethargy, difficulty walking, seizures, and collapse—ensure that the animal is moved into the shade or an air-conditioned space, offer them water, and wet them down with room-temperature (not cold) water. If their guardian isn’t around, call local authorities immediately.

PETA—whose motto reads, in part, that “animals are not ours to abuse in any way”—points out that Every Animal Is Someone and offers free Empathy Kits for people who need a lesson in kindness. For more information, please visit PETA.org or follow PETA on X, Facebook, or Instagram.