Phoenix Hiker Cited After Dog Dies of Heat-Related Issues on Piestewa Peak

A man hiking Piestewa Peak on Wednesday was arrested and cited after his dog died of heat-related issues on the mountain trail.

Phoenix Fire Department rescue crew were called to Piestewa Peak around 11:15 a.m. after an overheated hiker called 911.

Daniel Milunovic, 29-year-old, reported that his two dogs were also experiencing heat related issues. At the time, the temperature was around 100 degrees in Phoenix.

Fire rescue crew located Milunovic approximately 300 yards from the trailhead. Upon their arrival, one Milunovic’s dogs, a Rhodesian Ridgeback, had died. The rescue crew members escorted Milunovic and the other dog to the bottom of the mountain.

Firefighters worked to cool down the dog and assessed Milunovic, who refused transportation to the hospital. The Arizona Humane Society also responded to the scene to assist with the dogs.

In 2016, the City of Phoenix banned hiking with dogs on Phoenix trails in excessive heat of 100+ degree days. The penalties for violating this rule include a Class 1 misdemeanor and punishable with a fine up to $2,500 and six months in jail.

Authorities have been warning residents all summer on the dangers of hiking with dogs during the hot temperatures and the hiking trails even have signs that say no dogs on the trails in excessive heat.

The Arizona Humane Society reported that on Monday another dog, a 1-and-a-half-year-old Doberman, while hiking a trail on South Mountain.

Milunovic was cited for neglect of animals.