Leaving your dog unattended in the car for a few minutes may seem harmless, but the risks are far too high to take. On a warm day, a dog inside a car can suffer from heatstroke in as little as 15 minutes. Read on as we explain why it’s never a good idea to leave your pet alone in the car, whatever the weather or circumstances.
Myths about leaving your dog in the car
First, let’s debunk some commonly believed myths about leaving dogs in cars:
- It’s only an issue if I leave my dog in the car on a hot day.
- It’s not dangerous if I park in the shade because the car will stay cool.
- The car will stay cool if I leave the window open.
- If I’m only out of the car for a moment, it’s not long enough for the car to get too hot.
Often, well-intentioned and loving owners put their dog in a dangerous situation because they’re not aware of the facts. So let’s take a look at them.
The risks of leaving your dog unattended
– A parked car will heat up like an oven. On a 24°C day, the temperature inside a parked car can reach around 34°C in just 10 minutes, continuing to climb rapidly after that.
– Dogs don’t sweat in the same way as humans. They sweat through their paws, rather than their skin, so panting is how they regulate their temperature and cool down. And remember – they’re wearing a fur coat all year round.
– If you park in the shade or leave a window open a crack, it will make virtually no difference to the car’s temperature.
– Heatstroke can be fatal in as little as 15 minutes. It can also cause serious brain damage within a very short time.
The conclusion is simple: never leave your dog alone in the car, even if it’s just for a few minutes, and even if it’s a relatively cool day.
What should I do if I see a dog trapped in a hot car?
Look for signs of heatstroke, including excessive panting, drooling, collapse, vomiting drowsiness, and ring 999 immediately.
If you don’t think the emergency services will arrive quickly enough, and you believe the dog’s life is in immediate danger, document the situation by taking photos or videos and, if possible, ask someone nearby to act as a witness. Before breaking into the car, tell the police what you intend to do. Without reasonable justification, you could be liable for criminal damage.
As soon as the dog has been removed from the car, take them to a cool, shaded area. Don’t use ice or cold water, as this could cause shock. Instead, pour cool water over them or apply damp towels.
Give the dog small amounts of drinking water, and once their breathing has become steady, take them to the nearest vet, letting the practice know you’re on your way with an emergency.
The takeaway
Knowledge is power. Now you know the facts, share them with fellow pet owners so they can keep their furry companions safe too.
Looking for ways to help your pet cope during a heatwave? Our Summer Shop has everything you need to keep them cool and comfortable in warm weather.
