A Look at Pet Safety

One of the more stomach-churning stories of this summer started with an innocent day at the park and ended with the death of a defenseless Maltese dog.

Heriberto Palacio, 41, of the Bronx was arrested for leaving his six-pound dog in a 140-degree car for an hour while he and his girlfriend went for a refreshing swim at the Franklin D. Roosevelt State Park. When the Maltese was discovered, it was not only unconscious but also convulsing. All attempts by police to revive the dog failed; it had died of heat stroke.

Palacio has been charged with animal cruelty: but is it enough to get him a year sentence in prison?

People are enraged enough to see that happen: most comments offered by residents regarding this story cannot be printed. 

Ken Ross, the chief investigator for the SPCA in Westchester County, said Palacio has been charged with animal cruelty, which is a misdemeanor. This needless death may remind people of just how dangerous it is to leave an animal in a car during hot weather, even for a few minutes. 

A worker from the Rye-Harrison Animal Hospital on North Street in Rye offers an expansive list of guidelines and precautions to follow in order to keep your pet safe this summer. For instance, just the simple act of keeping your pet hydrated, especially during particularly warm days, can make a huge difference in the animal's health. Many of the hot-weather tips are common sense, such as not bringing your pet along if you know you'll be leaving your car for even a short period of time. 

If something does happen, contact the Veterinary Emergency Group in White Plains. One spokesperson, Roe Moore, can be reached at (914) 949-8779. 

As for Palacio, his fate is still being determined. 

To report acts animal cruelty, call (877) THE-ASPCA or 911. In Westchester County, call the line: (914) 941-7797.

For more tips on hot weather pet care, please see ASPCA.org.