It Gets Hot in the Car! Keep Your Pet Safe in Hot Weather
On warm days, leaving your pet in the car—even for just 5 to 10 minutes—can quickly become life-threatening. The temperature inside a vehicle rises alarmingly fast, and pets are especially vulnerable to heat. In fact, within just 10 minutes, the temperature inside your car can soar to 1.5 times the outside temperature, significantly increasing the risk of heatstroke and other heat-related illnesses.
Unlike humans, pets can't cool themselves by sweating. Instead, they rely on panting, and to a lesser extent, heat loss through their paws and ears. This makes it far more difficult for them to regulate their body temperature, and they can overheat rapidly.
Even if your car is parked in the shade, the temperature inside can still climb to dangerously high levels. Rolling down the windows might not help as much as you think—pets can still suffer from heat stress.
When it’s hot outside, the safest option is always to leave your pet at home while you run errands. Always remember: a few minutes in a hot car can be a matter of life or death for your pet.
Please prioritize your pet’s safety and comfort by keeping them cool and safe at home during the warmer months.
What to Do If You See a Pet Left in a Hot Car
If you spot a pet left alone in a car on a hot day, it's important to take action quickly. Here’s what you can do:
- Note the Vehicle's Information: Record the license plate number, make, and model of the vehicle.
- Notify the Nearby Businesses: Alert nearby store or restaurant managers so they can make an announcement and try to locate the pet's owner.
- Call the Police: If the animal appears to be in distress, contact the local authorities to report the situation.
- Stay Close: Remain by the car and monitor the situation until help arrives.
What to Do If Your Pet Suffers from Heatstroke
If you realize your pet has been exposed to extreme heat, prompt action is critical. Here's what to do to help them:
- Get Them Out of the Car: Move your pet out of the hot vehicle as quickly as possible.
- Offer Fresh Water: Give your pet cool, fresh water to help rehydrate.
- Cool Them Down: Place your pet in a cool area and apply wet towels to their head, neck, abdomen, and legs. Running cool water over these areas can also help lower their temperature.
- Call Your Veterinarian: Contact your vet immediately for advice and further instructions. Heatstroke can be life-threatening, so it's important to get professional care as soon as possible.
Stay Safe This Summer
When the temperatures rise, it's crucial to remember that even brief periods in a hot car can be dangerous for your pet. Even during short errands, it is safer to leave your pet at home.
If you see a pet in distress, by taking quick action, you can help prevent heatstroke and other heat-related health issues.
