Dog dies in Collier County vehicle, prompting investigation and Road Dogs program suspension

Collier County Domestic Animal Services is suspending its Road Dogs program, a program where dogs up for adoption ride along with county employees, after a dog died in a county vehicle. According to DAS, the dog died in a county vehicle last week. An investigation is underway to determine the circumstances and responsible parties for the animal's care. According to an incident report from the Collier County Sheriff's Office, the dog, an eight-year-old female, was being fostered by the Collier Road and Bridge Department. The dog was reported as ill and unresponsive on Sept. 11. DAS says that the Road Dogs program, which has been around since June 2025, has been suspended pending the results of the investigation. DOWNLOAD the free Gulf Coast News app for your latest news and alerts on breaking news, weather, sports, entertainment, and more on your phone or tablet. And check out the Very Local Gulf Coast app to stream news, entertainment and original programming on your TV