Can Dogs Be Left In Hot Cars?
Here's an informative article on dogs in hot cars.
Never leave your dog in a car on a warm day, as temperatures can sour to dangerous, even fatal levels in minutes, even with windows cracked or in the shade. When its 22C outside a car can reach 47C with an hour. If you see a dog in distress, dial 999 immediately.
“What to do if you see a dog in a hot car?”
“Access the dog”: Look for signs of heatstroke (heavy panting, drooling, lethargy, distress)
“Call 999”: This is the primary action if the dog is in distress
“Find the owner”: If in a shop or supermarket, as for an announcement to be made
“Document”: Take photos or videos and note the cars registration and location
“Breaking in”: Only do this as a last resort in an emergency, as it could be considered criminal damage, inform the police.
Signs of heat stroke in dogs
Excessive panting or drooling
Barking or whining (distress)
Lethargh or stumbling
If the dog is unconscious or not responding, it is a critical emergency.
Key facts and safety
“Not long” is too long: The temperature inside a car rises rapid and can be fatal in under 20 minutes.
“Shade and windows don’t help”: Parking in the shade or leaving windows cracked open does not significantly reduce the risk.
“Legal consequences”: Under the Animal Act 2006 you can be prosecuted for cruelty if your dog is harmed by being left in the car.
“Alternatives”: Leave your dog at home or go to dog friendly places where they can join you.
If you decide to break into a car without proper justification, this could be classed as criminal damage and you may need to defend your actions in court.
The criminal damage act 1971 provides a lawful excuse to commit damage. If you believe that the owner of the property that you damage would consent to the damage if they knew the circumstances (under section 5 (2) (a)).
If you suspect an animal is suffering, remove them to a cool place, soak the coat with cool water (not freezing) and contact a vet immediately.
