SUGARCREEK, OH — What began as a joyful drive to meet a rescue dog turned into a heartbreaking tragedy when Bruno, a 4-year-old Newfoundland, died of heat stroke inside an air-conditioned SUV.
Despite the vehicle running and the windows cracked, Bruno succumbed to the extreme summer heat — prompting urgent warnings from veterinarians and animal advocates alike.
Heat Stroke Even With the A/C Running
Bruno’s owners were en route to a dog adoption meet-and-greet when the tragedy unfolded. According to Dr. Brandon Michels, owner of Sugarcreek Veterinary Clinic, Bruno was riding in the backseat of a large SUV with the air conditioning on — but that wasn’t enough.
“Bruno suffered a heat stroke from essentially being inside of a vehicle, even though that vehicle was running and had the air conditioning on,” said Michels.
Dr. Michels emphasized that dogs with long hair or double coats, like Bruno, are especially vulnerable. Larger vehicles often have poor rear airflow, increasing the risk.
Warning Signs of Canine Heat Stroke
Dr. Michels listed several early and severe symptoms pet owners should watch for:
- Early signs: Panting, dry gums, heavy drooling
- Severe signs: Trembling, staggering, vomiting, diarrhea
“It can look like your dog is drunk. And if untreated, it progresses quickly,” he warned.
Expert Tips to Keep Dogs Cool in Summer
To help avoid another tragedy, Dr. Michels and Art Munoz from Operation Kindness recommend:
- Using cooling vests and frozen dog treats
- Always carrying cool water and a bowl
- Installing pet-specific A/C units or battery-operated fans
- Avoiding putting dogs in the very back of vehicles
- Walking pets early morning or late evening to protect paws from hot pavement
- Testing pavement with your hand — if it’s too hot for you, it’s too hot for them
Read Also: 4-Year-Old Georgia Boy Dies After Becoming Trapped in Hot Car
Rescue Group Updates Safety Protocols
Bruno’s death prompted Life and Rescue with the Reeds to revise its transport guidelines:
- Limit trips to 1.5–2 hours
- A/C on coldest setting, with vents aimed at the back
- No hammock-style covers if they block airflow
- Cooling vests purchased for all transport dogs
- Emergency vet visits mandatory for heat symptoms
- Transport cancellations during extreme heat
- Zoom heat stroke training required for volunteers
- Temperature gauges being added to vehicles
“We’re doing everything we can to ensure this never happens again,” said the rescue group in a statement.
Be Smart, Stay Safe: Pet Lives Depend on It
Even brief exposure to extreme temperatures can be deadly — even if the A/C is running. Experts urge pet owners to know their vehicle’s airflow patterns, stay alert to signs of heat stroke, and always prioritize safety over convenience.
Have You Ever Dealt With a Heat Emergency Involving a Pet? Share your experience or tips in the comments at ridgecrestpact.org. Let’s help protect other families — and their furry friends — from preventable tragedies
