MEMPHIS, Tenn. — On Thursday Memphis Police said they were investigating the case of a dog that died after being left in a hot car Wednesday afternoon.
Police said the little dog, named Boss Lady, was taken to the Bartlett Animal Shelter but it was too late.
Now people at the shelter said the dog’s owners could face charges.
“Damage can happen here; we’re talking about death,” said Angela Klein with the Bartlett Animal Shelter.
She said no animal should be left in unbearable temperatures and Wednesday was a sad example of what can happen.
Police said they got a call just before 4 p.m. from Wolfchase Galleria that a dog had been left in a car.
The window was cracked and there was a cup of water for the dog.
People in the parking lot got the dog out but by the time they made it to the Bartlett Animal Shelter, the shorkie, named Boss Lady, had died.
Police found the owners, Charlie Parker and Alexis Cain, who said they didn’t know it would get so hot.
Klein said this looked like a case of animal cruelty and they should face charges.
WREG spoke with Parker on the phone.
He said he felt bad about what happened and initially agreed to meet and share pictures of his dog but after numerous attempts to get in contact we haven’t heard back.
His neighbor said it was a sad case.
“I commend those people who tried to help you know they did right,” said Cameron Anderson.
Under Tennessee law people who see animals in need in hot cars can break in and help them.
Klein said she hoped others would step up if they came across another animal in need down the road.
“If people don’t turn people in, people are going to say ‘oh it’s no big deal’,” she explained.
Police have not said if charges will be filed.
They said the case is still under investigation.
The District Attorney’s Office said if convicted the punishment could be up to 11 months in prison.