Two dogs rescued from hot vehicle by Hollister Animal Control officers

Animal Control officers from Hollister Police Animal Care and Services went into a vehicle to rescue two pit bulls left inside during triple-digit temperatures without food, water or enough ventilation.

It happened Tuesday when they responded to a report of two dogs left unattended inside a vehicle. When they got there, they found the pit bulls inside with an empty water bowl and no food. The vehicle was also in direct sunlight with the windows slightly cracked on a 101 degree day.

Officers tried to find the owners, but could not make contact.

The dogs started to show signs that they were in distress, so officers forced their way into the vehicle to rescue them. They were taken to the Hollister Animal Shelter and were treated for symptoms of heat stroke.

The dogs are recovering in the care of Hollister Police Animal Care and Services, and the owner was cited.

Hollister police issued a reminder that leaving an animal in a vehicle on a hot day could cause harm or death, but it is also against the law. If you see an animal in distress in a hot vehicle, you are asked to call local law enforcement and provide the license plate number, vehicle description and the nearest address or location of the vehicle.