DEMAND MAX SENTENCE - dog left to die of heat

A black Labrador retriever died Tuesday of extreme heat in Rutherford County, Tennessee. His owner now faces aggravated animal cruelty charges.

Veterinarians warn dog owners about the tragic consequences of extreme heat when pets are not properly protected:

“ If dogs become overheated it can cause liver damage and a bleeding syndrome where they can die. You want to make sure that you’re watching them for signs of heat exhaustion, weakness, dizziness or stumbling around."

Tragically, that is what happened to Stevie, who lived on Journey Drive, when his leash became tangled. According to the report, there was no food or water near the dog. Animal Control reported Stevie's body temperature as 131 degrees; the ground temperature around his dog house was 106 degrees.

Stevie's owner, Kevin Syas was arrested and charged with aggravated animal cruelty.

This dog's death could have been avoided by leaving him water, and providing shade - or leaving him indoors.