July 11, 2012

9 Mass. dogs die in kennel; owner says AC failed

The Associated Press

WESTFIELD, Mass. — Nine show dogs have died at a private kennel in Westfield, and their owner says she believes a faulty air conditioner is to blame.

The Massachusetts Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals says it is investigating.

Brenda Coggin says her Australian shepherds were fine when she left them last Thursday morning. When she found them dead that afternoon, the air conditioner had tripped a reset button and was giving off mist and a chemical odor.

Coggin said she doesn't know if the dogs were poisoned by leaking coolant or became overheated. She said buried the dogs that night without calling authorities.

She told WWLP-TV she was "devastated" and it's still "pretty traumatic" to deal with the loss.

Coggin also keeps about 30 horses at her Coggin Creek Stables.

 

Were you interviewed for this story? If so, please fill out our accuracy form

Send question/comment to the editors




Further Discussion

Here at PressHerald.com we value our readers and are committed to growing our community by encouraging you to add to the discussion. To ensure conscientious dialogue we have implemented a strict no-bullying policy. To participate, you must follow our Terms of Use.

Questions about the article? Add them below and we’ll try to answer them or do a follow-up post as soon as we can. Technical problems? Email them to us with an exact description of the problem. Make sure to include:
  • Type of computer or mobile device your are using
  • Exact operating system and browser you are viewing the site on (TIP: You can easily determine your operating system here.)


Most…