Dogs rescued from scorching hot tar roof in Newark

NEWARK, New Jersey -- On one of the hottest days of the year, the Associated Humane Society of Newark received a distressing call about two dogs on a tarred rooftop. What they found is heartbreaking.

When the officers arrived on the location around 5:00 p.m. last Friday, they found a pit bull and a Yorkie frantically "dancing" on the roof in an attempt to stop their feet from burning.

The temperature was 96 degrees at the time and dogs were on a flat, tar roof.

Officers said the tar was bubbling, boiling and burning the helpless dogs.

No one was home at the time, but officers were able to remove the dogs and get them to an emergency veterinary hospital.

The dogs suffered severe burns and their conditions are listed as guarded. They will remain in the hospital under their condition improves.

Officials said they found trays of chicken legs and rice on the roof, but no water.

Feces also covered the roof, they said.

Authorities are still searching for the dogs' owners.

Investigators are also trying to determine who exactly is responsible for putting the dogs out on the roof and whether anyone will face charges.

More information from Associated Humane Society of Newark