Woman leaves pets in 125-degree car, posts bail, gets pets back

Police pry door open to rescue animals

WEST DES MOINES, Iowa — Despite being arrested for leaving her animals in a 125-degree car, Katherine Schoeneich went home shortly after with her cat and dog.

On a 90-degree day, the 49-year-old woman went inside and had lunch for approximately 30 minutes, according to West Des Moines police.

Temps in the car quickly rose to 125 when police pried open the door to rescue the animals left inside, sweltering.

Witnesses called the West Des Moines police, noticing the animals around 11:30 a.m. Friday.

Police arrested Schoeneich and charged her with two counts of animal neglect, but she was soon released from jail after posting bail and still has custody of the animals. 

The car did have its windows cracked, but it had little effect on the temperature.

Not long ago, WIZM talked to Kathy Kasakaitas, the La Crosse County animal control supervisor, about advice for those in the state who see a pet that appears to be suffering.

To read what your rights are, so you’re not held liable for breaking into a car, click here.