Most people wouldn't think twice about leaving their child in a car during the summer months, or any other time during the year. Unfortunately, many other people have no problem leaving their pet in their car while they run errands. During the summer months, this is not only a deadly practice, but it's also illegal in many places - rightfully so. The same case can be made for leaving your pets in the car during the winter months as well.

 

Your dog or cat can't tell you when they're hot or cold, and they can't tell you not to leave them alone. Having a small bit of common sense should tell you that you're risking the health and possibly the life of your furry friend.

 

WHAT CAN HAPPEN

Hyperthermia - A dog's normal body temperature is already at 101.5 degrees. When you add a coat of fur, windows rolled up (or even cracked a bit), and the outside temperature is at 70 degrees or above, your dog is in trouble. Even if parked in the shade, the interior of your car can reach 120 degrees very quickly. In less than 30 minutes, your dog can die from heat stroke or brain damage. Why would you risk such an awful death for your 'best friend'?

Hypothermia - Exposure to cold temperatures can also kill your pet, especially if they are of the short-haired variety.

If you are still not convinced, keep reading.

According to Triple A (AAA), within 15 minutes, the interior of a car will rise to 170 degrees when it's 85 degrees outside - with the windows cracked. In those short moments, your pet can suffer heat stroke before you even pick up your dry cleaning or grab that carton of milk.

Every responsible pet owner should be aware of the signs of an over-heated pet:

• rapid pulse,
• panting,
• glazed eyes,
• unsteadiness,
• vomiting, and/or
• purple or deep red tongue.

If your pet exhibits any of the above signs, it's time to take action to lower their body temperature:

• Apply cool (not cold) water all over their body,
• Apply ice packs or cold towels to their neck, chest and head only,
• Provide them with small amounts of water or allow them to lick ice cubes,
• Take them to a veterinarian right away.

If you see a pet in a car that looks even the slightest bit in distress, call your local animal control or police department IMMEDIATELY. Be sure to write down the license plate number and a description of the car. It is illegal in most places to leave a pet in a car, and having this information on hand will help authorities locate the irresponsible owner much quicker, before they can permanently damage their pet or kill them. DO NOT hesitate to report these people.

PLEASE REMEMBER TO LEAVE YOUR PET AT HOME WHERE THEY ARE SAFE.

YOUR CAR IS NOT A PET SITTER.