Summer Safety Tips

Dogs can make wonderful travel companions. Many dogs are quick to jump in the car and stick their head out the open window, but taking your dog with you is not always a good idea. The summer heat can quickly cause a car ride to become a deadly outing.

Every year dogs die when they are left in parked cars because outdoor temperatures can be deceiving. On extremely hot days, most people realize leaving a dog in the car isn’t safe, but you may not realize that same risk applies on more mild days.

When it is 85 degrees outside the inside temperature in a parked car can reach 120 degrees within just a half hour, even if the windows are slightly open and the car is parked in the shade. When a dog is left in a car under these conditions they can die or suffer permanent physical damage. A dog’s normal body temperature is 101 to 102.5 degrees. Since dogs do not sweat, they are at greater risk of hyperthermia if their body temperature goes above 105 degrees.

How to Protect Your Dog

If you must take your dog with you never leave them alone in a parked car. Take a second person with you so they can sit outside with the dog in the shade if you have to park your car and go inside where dogs are not allowed. Be sure to bring a bowl and drinking water to keep your pet hydrated while they await your return with the dog sitter. If you are going out to eat, find a restaurant with an outdoor patio that allows dogs. When traveling check into pet friendly hotels. When you return to your car, get inside first and roll down all the windows and turn on the air conditioning to cool off the car before your dog jumps in. Taking these extra precautions could save your dog’s life.

How to Save a Dog Locked in a Hot Car

If you encounter a dog that has been left in a car on a hot day, quickly assess his condition. If the dog is panting heavily, breathing deeply, has increased salvation, is vomiting and appears disoriented, immediately call 911. Explain to the operator that you have found a dog in a parked car that is in serious trouble. They will ask for your location and then dispatch either a law enforcement officer or an animal control officer. Stay at the car until the officials arrive.

Spread the Word

Use this flyer to leaflet your local parking lots early this summer to help spread this safety message. Your education action may save lives.

Brought to you by the SPCA - http://www.spca.com/petcare/item/139