Pet advice: Dogs die in hot cars
In warm weather, cars become ovens. Temperatures could soar to over 49ºC. You should never leave animals inside a car.
Dogs and other pets that are left in a hot car may suffer from heatstroke which could kill them. This could happen within 20 minutes of being left. Even leaving the windows open or providing water will not help.
In a vehicle, the heat from the sun is intensified through the glass. The dog will pant to try and cool down, which can lead to severe dehydration and hyperventilation. Its body temperature will increase to the point where it is effectively boiled alive from the inside.
Opening a window a little or leaving a bowl of water is simply not enough. We advise you to leave your dog at home and to make adequate arrangements for feeding and exercising.
If you leave your dog or pet inside a locked car you could be prosecuted.
If you see a dog that has been left inside a parked car on a warm day, contact the Police on 999 for assistance or RSPCA on 0300 1234999.
Signs of heatstroke
- Excessive panting and salivation.
- Rapid pulse.
- Overly red or purple gums.
- Lack of coordination, inability to rise after collapsing.
- Vomiting or diarrhoea.
Treating heatstroke
- Call your veterinary surgeon for advice.
- Pour cool (not freezing cold) water over the dog.
- Provide small amounts of cool (not freezing cold) water.
How to keep your dog cool in the sun
- Never leave your dog alone in a car.
- Never leave your dog alone in a glass conservatory or caravan.
- Always ensure that a cooler, ventilated environment is available to your dog to move to if they are feeling hot.
- Dogs with light-coloured noses and ears should have pet safe sunscreens applied to the areas to prevent sunburn.
For more information, please visit the RSPCA website.