Posted August 5, 2025
Temple Police praised for rescuing eight animals from hot car
A neighbor who called Temple University’s Department of Public Safety to report the incident wanted to personally thank the police officers who responded.
Photography By:
Matt Petrillo
Corinthia Johnson, the North Philadelphia block captain who called Temple Police, said Temple Police always respond quickly any time she calls. She added that she appreciates everything that Temple Police does for the North Philadelphia community.
A North Philadelphia woman is praising the quick actions of several Temple University police officers after they rescued seven dogs and a cat from a dangerously hot car on July 25, a sweltering day that reached 98 degrees outside.
Block captain Corinthia Johnson was alerted by neighbors about several animals seen inside a parked car and went to check on them for herself. Realizing they appeared in heat-related distress on one of the hottest days of the year, she immediately called Temple Police by dialing 215-204-1234.
“They always show up right away when I call,” Johnson said.
Temple Police Officer Arashdeep Bawa quickly arrived and noticed some of the animals were also covered in feces and panting from the heat.
“I was very concerned, as I have dogs of my own, and I wanted to make sure that the dogs were okay,” Bawa said. “When we made contact with the neighbor, she said the car had been parked here for several hours with the animals inside.”
According to the police investigation, temperatures inside the vehicle were approximately 102 degrees. Fortunately, Bawa and other Temple police officers were able to unlock the car from a window that was open. When the owner arrived, Bawa said he surrendered the animals and police safely transported them to ACCT Philly, where they received care. Two of the dogs have been adopted into loving homes and three have been placed with rescues.
Two dogs, who are both about 4 years old, need to be adopted together, according to ACCT Philly. They are Shih Tzu mix pooches named Sky and Winter and both are currently residing at Doggy Style Pets. Additionally, a 4-year-old cat named Sunny is awaiting adoption at ACCT Philly.
Johnson wanted to personally thank the Temple police officers who helped rescue the animals.
“I am so thankful that Temple Police showed up," Johnson said. “Police Officers Becky and Natalie—they always seem to be there for anything I call, they’re always there. They’re my angels. I appreciate Temple University, I really do."
Bawa noted that safety is everybody’s responsibility.
“It takes everyone working together, from neighbors, to police officers, to students and faculty and staff to do their part to make a safer community for everyone,” Bawa said.
“I’m so proud of our police officers for always going above and beyond—not just to help the Temple and North Philadelphia communities but to help animals in need, too,” said Jennifer Griffin, Temple’s chief of police and vice president for public safety.
Bawa said he’s proud to serve.
“Temple University is committed to improving the North Philadelphia community,” he said. “Whether you’re a student or a neighbor, we’re here to help and foster positive change.”
