Kerrie Swick’s alleged neglect caused her aging dog to collapse from heat stroke and be euthanized.
At a Glance
- A 58‑year‑old woman faces aggravated animal cruelty charges for leaving her 14‑year‑old Labrador outside.
- The dog named Bear was found without shelter, food, or water after roughly 13 hours outside.
- Bear’s internal temperature reached 110 °F at a Plainfield veterinary center.
- The dog was humanely euthanized due to irreversible medical damage.
- Local authorities warn pet owners to ensure shade, hydration, and care in high heat.
The Incident Unfolded
On the morning of July 2, Joliet Township Animal Control responded to a distress call about a dog in critical condition in a backyard. The dog—14‑year‑old Labrador retriever Bear—had allegedly been left outside overnight without food, water, or shelter. Officers say Bear had been outside since roughly 8 p.m. the previous evening. By the time help arrived, Bear was found collapsed and unresponsive, according to Shaw Local.
Bear’s condition was described as “grave,” and he was immediately transported to an emergency veterinary clinic. The case report notes that when Bear was examined, his body temperature had soared to a life-threatening 110 degrees Fahrenheit. Authorities say the dog exhibited signs of full heat stroke, including organ failure and severe dehydration.
Heat Stroke Claims Beloved Pet
Veterinary staff determined that Bear’s injuries were irreversible. Despite efforts to stabilize him, the decision was made to euthanize the animal to prevent further suffering. The heat stroke diagnosis and the prolonged outdoor exposure prompted police to arrest 58‑year‑old Kerrie Swick at her Springwood Drive residence later that afternoon.
She now faces a felony count of aggravated animal cruelty, according to charging documents approved by the Will County State’s Attorney’s Office. Officials confirmed Swick is currently held at the Will County Adult Detention Facility, as reported by Patch and WJOL.
Investigators emphasized that Bear was elderly and especially vulnerable to temperature extremes. His prolonged exposure, lack of basic care, and extreme body temperature created what police called a “preventable tragedy.”
Watch a report: How to keep pets safe during a heat wave
Broader Warning Amid Rising Heat
Veterinary experts stress that summer conditions—especially during heat advisories like the one issued this week in Will County—can pose deadly risks to animals. Overnight temperatures in the high 60s and low 80s, combined with humidity and a lack of shelter, can quickly result in fatal heat stroke.
The Joliet Police Department issued a renewed warning to all residents: animals must have access to shade, cool water, and adequate protection if left outdoors. Elderly pets and short-nosed breeds are particularly at risk.
Bear’s death now serves as a flashpoint for renewed attention on pet welfare in extreme weather. Animal control officials hope this tragic case spurs more awareness, better precautions—and most critically, fewer preventable losses.