Atlanta, GA – Last weekend, twelve dogs perished in a transport trailer after the air-conditioning system failed. Lifeline Animal Project broke the heartbreaking news on Monday, explaining that team members were transporting dogs to an out-of-state adoption event in a borrowed trailer.
According to the organization, the transport team stopped multiple times along the way and discovered the failed air-conditioning system within an hour of their last check-in. The group said:
the teams stopped frequently to check on the dogs along the way. We are devastated to share that within an hour from the last check-in, the team discovered that the air conditioning unit failed. The temperature gauge for the trailer that was displayed in the cab remained around 72 to 65 degrees and did not indicate any issues.
The team immediately began efforts to save the dogs, saving 22; tragically 11 of the dogs died on site. Two dogs were transported to an emergency veterinarian for care, but one of the dogs died, bringing the total dead to 12.
The group expressed sorrow for the tremendous loss, writing:
This tragic loss has shaken all of us to our core. We will be hosting a vigil this week for our staff and volunteers to grieve the painful loss of these 12 dogs. Though this was an unforeseen and devastating mechanical failure, the loss is unfathomable. In this dark hour, we wanted to let our community know about this tragedy and we ask that you please support the teams with your thoughts and kindness.
Rest in peace.
