Europa-Park Rust in Baden-Württemberg is Germany's largest theme park. It offers over 100 attractions and shows across 15 themed European worlds.
It usually makes for a wonderful family day out. But on this fateful day, it was the site of a terrible tragedy.
Terrifying heatstroke
On the 24th of June, a family decided to visit the theme park, leaving their 10-month-old Poodle in their VW van.
With no water and no shade, temperatures quickly reached a shocking 50 degrees inside the vehicle.
Gradually transforming into a blazing oven, the poor pup struggled to survive while her family went off to enjoy their day.
Around 5pm, security staff discovered the dog fighting for her life. They immediately alerted the police and Europa-Park's fire brigade who removed the puppy from the scorching prison she had been trapped in.
Thankfully, emergency medical treatment meant she went on to make a full recovery.
Owner faces charges for animal cruelty
Her owners were reported for their heartless actions, and they now face charges for animal cruelty.
Leaving an animal in an overheated vehicle is considered a criminal offence and can be punished with hefty fines and a prison sentence.
