MADISON (WKOW) — An investigation is underway in Madison after multiple dogs died under the care of a 68-year-old woman.
Madison police responded around 4 p.m. Saturday to a distress call regarding dogs left in a hot van.
The woman had left seven Great Danes in the vehicle since 10:30 a.m. with no access to air, food or water, according to a Madison Police Department incident report.
Two of the dogs were found dead inside the vehicle. All of the dogs were suffering from various stages of heat stroke, police reported.
Four dogs were taken to an emergency veterinary clinic. Three had to be euthanized due to their condition.
The fifth dog, initially with another person, collapsed at the vet, where it was seized by animal services.
The sixth dog is in critical condition, while the last dog was placed in the custody of a dog breeder.
Judith Wiesner was arrested for five felony counts of mistreatment of animals causing death and two counts of mistreatment of animals.
Wiesner told police she left the dogs in the van parked in the 400 block of Science Drive when she left for work earlier that morning.
Wiesner was taken to the Dane County Jail.
The investigation continues with the assistance of Animal Control.
Anyone who has information about this incident, or any other information in reference to animals being abused, is encouraged to contact the Madison Area Crime Stoppers at 608-266-6014. Information can also be shared anonymously online at p3tips.com.
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