OTTUMWA, Iowa — The American Kennel Club has confirmed it investigated a professional dog handler after three dogs left in a hot vehicle during a weekend show died.

Police in the southeastern Iowa city of Ottumwa have confirmed an investigation as well, though they have not said who is being targeted.

The dog show at Bridge View Center took place over the weekend as temperatures climbed into the upper 80s.

Tuesday afternoon, the Ottumwa Police Department released a statement detailing a call to the 100 block of Church Street in Ottumwa. Though the incident occurred Saturday, the call to police came in on Sunday.

“The incident involved four dogs which were locked in a vehicle and were suffering from heat exposure,” wrote Police Chief Tom McAndrew. “It was reported that two dogs were found deceased at the scene and a third dog was transported to a local veterinary clinic where it later died. The fourth dog survived.”

“It breaks our hearts,” said Brandi Hunter, vice president with the AKC headquarters in New York. “Dogs are living, breathing, wonderful animals that we are privileged to have a bond with.”

The show was co-sponsored by the local chapter of the AKC. Hunter said a club officer was immediately assigned to investigate the deaths.

A handler was in possession of the three dogs that died. Owners often hire handlers to work with the dogs during shows.

“We take animal cruelty or neglect very seriously,” Hunter told the Ottumwa, Iowa Courier. “We have suspended all of the handler’s privileges with the AKC: No showing, no registering a litter, nothing.”

The AKC is being cautious about how much information it releases from its own inquiry. Hunter said the organization wants to be sure it does not interfere with police investigators.

Hunter did say the deaths do not appear to have been a malicious act.

“Do not leave your dogs in the car,” Hunter said. “We say it every day but there seems to be a learning gap. Cars get hot very quickly. If you cannot take your dogs with you, leave them at home.”

Newman writes for the Ottumwa, Iowa Courier.