As we are now well into Summer it is important to recognise that we are not the only ones that complain about the heat, our animals do too. Leaving a dog in a hot car, even for a short period, is an act of negligence that can have fatal consequences.  

A parked car can quickly transform into a furnace on a warm day, even with the windows cracked open. Dogs lack efficient natural cooling methods, making them highly susceptible to heatstroke. Heatstroke can lead to severe organ damage, seizures, and in the worst cases, death. It’s crucial to understand that even if the outside temperature appears moderate, the temperature inside the car can become deadly quickly; here are the following issues that can occur. 

• Inadequate Air Circulation 

The air circulation inside a parked car is minimal, leading to suffocating conditions for your pet. Panting is a dog’s primary method of cooling down, but in such stifling conditions, it becomes ineffective, placing immense strain on their breathing. 

• Dehydration and Organ Failure 

Extreme heat can quickly cause dehydration in dogs, leading to a series of severe health problems. When dehydrated, a dog’s vital organs, including the heart and kidneys, begin to struggle, and if left untreated, organ failure can occur. Our canine companions cannot communicate this to you easily so it is important that you avoid it in the first place. 

• Panic and Distress

Dogs are highly social animals and thrive on companionship. Leaving them alone in a hot car causes immense stress, fear, and anxiety. Your pet may panic, resulting in erratic behavior and attempts to escape which could cause injury and further risk of heatstroke.  

alternative options for leaving your dog in the car: 

• Plan Dog-Friendly Outings: Look for places and activities where you can take your dog along. Dog parks, pet-friendly restaurants, or outdoor trails are great options to enjoy quality time together. 
• Leave Your Pet at Home: If you need to run errands or visit places that are not dog-friendly, it’s best to leave your dog in a safe, cool, and comfortable environment at home. 
• Travel with Company: If traveling with your dog is necessary, ensure that someone remains in the car with them at all times to provide proper care and attention. 

Leaving a dog in a hot car is a grave mistake that can have devastating consequences. As responsible and compassionate pet owners, it is your duty to prioritise your dogs’ safety and well-being above all else. The risks of heatstroke, dehydration, and distress are simply too great to ignore. By spreading awareness about this critical issue, we can collectively work towards creating a safer and more caring environment for our beloved canine companions. Saving Strays Animal Rescue is committed to aiding the welfare of all animals so strongly recommends this action be avoided at all costs. For more information on how to keep your animal safe please read our blogs about advice for Pet Owners.