How to Keep Your Canine Cool and Safe in Your Car
As summer approaches, temperatures rise, and the dangers of leaving your furry friend in a parked car become more apparent. Dogs, like humans, can suffer from heatstroke, which can be fatal and leaving your dog in a parked car, even with the windows cracked, can quickly lead to overheating, dehydration, and at worst death. Also note, not all dogs over heat at the same rate, those short cute pudgy faced pups go from cool to hot in an instant.. so be aware. We all want to be responsible dog owners, so it is crucial to be know of the risks of hot weather and take the necessary precautions to keep your fur family safe.
How to keep your dog safe in a car in hot weather
If you need to take your dog with you in the car during hot weather, here are some tips to keep them safe:
- Plan ahead: Schedule car trips early in the morning or late in the evening, when temperatures are cooler.
- Provide shade and ventilation: Use sunshades or keep the windows open enough to provide shade and some airflow for your pup. Never leave them in a car with the windows closed.
- Bring fresh water and a bowl. Always bring plenty of cold fresh water and a bowl for your dog while they are in the car or at minimum offer them water more often than normal to keep them hydrated.
- Never leave your dog unattended. - this one can be challenging since we think it will be just a minute, but never leave your dog alone in the car, temps inside a car rise quickly, even on what you may consider a mild day.
For more Tips on caring for your fur friends during hot weather in general check out BC SPCA at spca.bc.ca.
What to do if you see a dog in a car:
If you come across a dog in a parked car on a hot day, there are a few steps you can take to help:
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Check the car's temperature: Before you take any action, check the car's temperature - some people will park and have air con on inside for their comfort, however if it is hot and the dog appears to be in distress, take action immediately.
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Notify authorities: Call local animal control, police, or the BC SPCA helpline at 1-855-622-7722. You may need to provide them with the car's make, model, and licence plate number. Stay on the scene to monitor the dog's condition until help arrives.
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Try to find the owner: If the car is parked in a public place, try to locate the owner. If you cannot find the owner or they do not respond, wait for the authorities to arrive.
Signs of heatstroke:
- Exaggerated panting or the sudden stopping of panting
- Rapid or erratic pulse
- Salivation, anxious or staring expression
- Weakness and muscle tremors or lack of coordination
- Convulsions or vomiting, and collapse
What to do:
- Move your pet to a cool, shady place
- Wet the animal with cool water
- Do not apply ice as this will constrict blood flow and discourage cooling
- Fan your pet to promote evaporation. This cools the blood, helping to reduce the animal’s core temperature
- Allow your pet to drink some cool water (or to lick ice cream if no water is available)
- Take your pet to a veterinarian as soon as possible for further treatment
