Dogs die in hot cars
In warm weather, cars become ovens. Temperatures could soar to 49ºC and higher.
Our advice is to to never leave animals inside their cars.
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.
Opening a window a little or leaving a bowl of water is simply not enough. The council advises people to leave their 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 hot day, contact the police on 999 for assistance or the RSPCA on 0300 1234999.
Find out more on the RSPCA website
Signs of heatstroke
- Excessive panting and salivation.
- Rapid pulse.
- Overly red or purple gums.
- Lack of coordination, inability to rise after collapsing.
- Vomiting/diarrhoea.
Treating heatstroke
- Call your veterinary surgeon for advice.
- Pour cool, but not freezing cold, water over the dog.
- Provide small amounts of cool, but not freezing cold, drinking 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 nose or/and ears should have pet safe sunscreens applied to the areas to prevent sunburn.