Dogs left in vehicles in extreme heat !

PLEASE DO NOT LEAVE YOUR DOG IN A VEHICLE IN HOT WEATHER.

Dogs cannot regulate their body temperature as efficiently as humans, relying mainly on panting and limited sweat glands. Even on mild days, the interior of a parked vehicle can heat up dangerously within minutes. Dogs then struggle to bring their core temperature down and takes hours to cool down. 

For example, on a 70°F day, a car can reach 99–100°F in just 20 minutes, and on hotter days, temperatures can exceed 110°F in half an hour, which can be fatal for dogs.

Leaving windows slightly open or parking in the shade does little to prevent this rapid heat build-up. 

Animal welfare organizations have issued warnings about the dangers of leaving dogs in cars during hot weather. Here are some key messages to help dog owners keep their pets safe:

Signs of heatstroke in dogs include heavy panting, excessive drooling, increased pulse, and restlessness. If you see these signs, move the dog to a cooler location and contact a vet immediately.

Avoid over-exercising dogs in hot weather. Dogs can overheat in all temperatures, so it's best to walk them during cooler times of the day.

Provide proper shade and hydration for dogs. Ensure they have access to fresh water at all times and find a shady spot to rest.

If you find a dog in a car that seems in distress, do not attempt to free them without police or RSPCA advice. Only the police have the legal authority to enter a vehicle to rescue a dog.

These messages are crucial for dog owners to ensure the safety of their pets during hot weather and to prevent heat-related emergencies.

If you see a dog left in a hot car, take immediate action: call local authorities or animal control, and if the dog’s life is in imminent danger, follow emergency procedures to safely remove the dog while waiting for help.

Provide water and ventilation and monitor the dog closely.

Key Takeaway

Leaving a dog in a car is dangerous under any circumstances, and the risks are heightened if the dog is in heat due to increased stress and body temperature sensitivity. Always prioritize your dog’s safety by keeping them with you, using climate-controlled transport, and avoiding leaving them unattended in vehicles.

If you have information about a crime or anyone you suspect may be involved in criminality, then please let us know using the online ‘Tell Us About’ form on our website www.westmercia.police.uk.

If you aren’t comfortable contacting us directly, you can pass on information anonymously to the independent charity, Crimestoppers, by calling 0800 555 111 or by visiting their website: www.crimestoppers-uk.org

Thank you for your help. It is only by the police and the public working together that we can prevent and detect crime.