A doggy daycare in the northwest suburbs has been charged with animal cruelty following the tragic death of a black lab, Miller, who was reportedly forgotten inside a hot van for an entire day. The dog’s owner, Steve Serota from Deerfield, shared his grief over the loss of his 6-year-old pet, describing Miller as the “perfect black lab” and an integral part of their family.
Miller had been a regular at Waggles Pet Resort in Wheeling for five years. On the day of the incident, a heat advisory was in effect, with temperatures soaring into the 90s. Despite being the first crate near the front of the van, Miller was left inside until Serota received the devastating news late in the afternoon.
Serota expressed disbelief at the negligence involved. Wheeling Police confirmed that animal cruelty charges have been filed against the daycare, emphasizing the need for better safeguards to prevent such incidents in the future. The facility has not offered any comments regarding the situation.