Trapped on a Balcony in the Heatwave: Dog Rescued After Hours Without Food or Water
In Tarragona, Spain, a dog was left on a small balcony for more than 12 hours during a severe heatwave. With temperatures soaring above 30°C, the animal suffered dehydration until authorities intervened. A formal investigation for animal abuse is now underway.
A Late-Night Call Saves a Life
On the evening of Saturday, June 28, emergency services in Tarragona, Catalonia, received a call about a dog seen stranded on a balcony with no access to food or water. The report came just before midnight, as the region faced an intense heatwave.
Police responded to the scene and located the dog on a cramped fifth-floor balcony. With the animal appearing stressed and alone, officers noted the situation but were unable to reach the owners that night. They instructed the morning patrol to return and reassess.
Still Trapped the Next Morning
When police returned on Sunday morning around 9:30 a.m., the dog was still outside. The owners had made no attempt to bring the animal inside or offer it any care. By this time, the dog showed clear signs of dehydration, having spent the night exposed to heat exceeding 30°C (86°F).
Officers immediately took the dog into custody and handed it over to the municipal animal collection services for emergency care. The poor animal’s survival was credited to the swift response and coordination between citizens and the police.
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Community Help and Legal Action
Authorities gained access to the balcony thanks to a helpful neighbor, as the apartment’s occupants remained unreachable throughout the ordeal. Given the circumstances and the suffering endured by the animal, police launched an investigation for animal abuse.
Under Spanish law, leaving a pet in extreme heat without proper shelter, water, or attention can result in significant penalties, including fines and potential imprisonment in severe cases.
A Harsh Reminder: Pets and Heatwaves Don’t Mix
This heartbreaking incident underscores the growing dangers pets face during extreme weather. Just like humans, dogs can suffer from heatstroke and dehydration—and being left without access to water or shade can become life-threatening within hours.
Authorities urge all pet owners to treat high temperatures with caution and to never leave animals confined in hot, unventilated spaces—whether it’s a balcony, a car, or a locked room.
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