Dogs Die in Hot Cars
Even on just a warm day, the charity says, leaving the windows open and supplying water can make little difference, as a car can still heat up all too quickly to around 50°C even when there are clouds around.
Caroline Kisko, the Kennel Club’s Communications Director says: “We all know how hot cars can get during the summer. Whether in the sun or the shade, cars heat up quickly and it can often be unbearable for us before the air-conditioning comes into effect, never mind dogs.
“Dogs can only cool down by panting and sweating through their paws, so they will find the heat far worse than humans. Owners are urged not to think that dogs can handle heat like we can and to realise that it is never safe to leave the dog in the car alone, weather the windows are open or not.”
The Kennel Club ‘Open for Dogs’ campaign encourages more businesses to accept dogs, avoiding the need to leave them unattended in hot cars. Thousands of dog-friendly attractions are currently listed on the website www.openfordogs.org.uk.
Some top tips for dog owners:
ALWAYS
- Consider the weather and your journey in advance, especially if you don’t have air conditioning in your car. Think about whether the journey is absolutely necessary for your dog.
- Make sure your dog has plenty of space in the car and isn’t squashed or forced to sit in direct sunlight.
- Always make sure there is shade provided: even in an air conditioned car a dog can become too hot if in full sun.
- Make sure plenty of stops are taken with lots of water available to drink.
- Take cold water in a thermos rather than a plastic bottle so it stays cold rather than being lukewarm. Ice cubes are helpful in a thermos for cooling too.
NEVER
- Leave a dog unattended in a car, even with the window open and water available. Take them out of the car and leave them in a secure, cool place with access to shade and water.
- Let your dog take part in unnecessary exertion in hot weather, or stand in exposed sunlight for extended lengths of time.
- Pass by a dog if you see one suffering in a car. Whether it be in a supermarket car park or at a show, make sure you let someone in authority know and if in doubt call the police or the RSPCA on 0300 1234 999.
Two independent vets have launched a podcast to help owners strengthen their bond with pets. Dr Maggie Roberts and Dr Vanessa Howie, who have worked in both veterinary practice and major charities, are keen to use their experience to enable people to give pets a better life.
