With a heatwave shattering record temperatures in B.C., the SPCA is reminding the public about the dangers of leaving pets in cars.
“We can’t stress strongly enough how dangerous it is to leave your pet in a hot car,” says Lorie Chortyk, general manager of communications for the BC SPCA.
Temperatures in Victoria are expected to reach up to 29C by Saturday. The American Veterinary Association estimates that the interior of a car with this kind of weather can heat up to 40C in 10 minutes.
“Last year, the BC SPCA responded to more than 800 calls about animals in distress in hot cars,” says Chortyk.
“The temperature in a parked car, even in the shade with windows partially open, can rapidly reach a level that can seriously harm or even kill a pet.”
Dogs have no sweat glands, and can only cool themselves by panting or releasing heat through their paws. Breeds with compressed faces that are brachycephalic, such as bulldogs or Boston terriers are particularly susceptible to high temperatures.
The BC SPCA urges pet owners to simply leave their dogs at home in situations where they are running errands.
“If you will need to leave them in a parked vehicle, even for a few minutes, don’t take them,” says Chortyk.
“Your dog will be much happier – and safer – at home, with shade and plenty of fresh cool water.”
Symptoms of heatstroke in pets include exaggerated panting (or a sudden stop in panting), a rapid pulse, salivation, anxious facial expressions, muscle tremors, vomiting, or collapse.
A pet suffering from heat stroke should be moved to a cool, shady spot, given cool water, and fanned vigorously. Ice is inadvisable as it constricts blood flow.
Here are the steps the BC SPCA recommends if you spot a dog in distress in a parked vehicle:
- Note the license plate and vehicle information and ask managers of nearby businesses to page the owner to return to their vehicle immediately.
- If an animal is clearly in distress, call to report the situation to the BC SPCA, animal control or a law enforcement agency.
- Note: It is illegal for members of the public to break a window to access the vehicle themselves – only the RCMP, police and special provincial constables of the BC SPCA can lawfully enter a vehicle.
Above all, the BC SPCA recommends spreading the word that hot vehicles and pets are a dangerous mix.
