“HOT DOG!”

Leaving your dog in a hot car isn't cool

By: Angel, Humane Investigator

Warmer weather is here, and pet lovers want to take their beloved pets with them where ever they go. Thousands of pet’s nation wide will be left unattended in parked cars while their owners run quick errands.

Can you imagine being locked in a car on a hot day with the windows opened a crack, while wearing a fur coat?  This is similar to what it must be like for a dog. This year many dogs will suffer heat stroke, irreparable brain injuries and even death. All of this can be easily prevented.

This is what you need to know:

• Cars act like an oven, trapping the suns heat. Each year hundreds of dogs suffer horrible deaths from being left in a parked car for a short period of time.
   

• If you see a dog unattended, in a parked car, on hot day, report it to your local animal control, police department or call 911. 
   

• On a mild 70 degree day the temperature inside your car can reach up to 120 degrees in minutes.
   

• Opening windows and parking in the shade won’t prevent a dog from getting over heated.
   

• Signs of heat distress may include: Heavy panting, glazed eyes, listlessness, and vomiting.
   

• When traveling with your beloved pet, always remember to secure them and bring fresh water along.
   

• If you see a dog inside a car in a business's parking lot, go inside, ask for the manager and insist that the get involve by making an announcement and calling the authorities.