Sadder words were never spoken.
Why?
Because an errand meant to take that proverbial “minute” is sixty seconds too long when an animal is left unattended in a car in the heat.
Why?
Because, even on mild summer days, with a car parked in the shade and the windows cracked, the INSIDE temperature can rapidly reach dangerous levels for a dog.
Why?
Because a car acts like a greenhouse, trapping and magnifying the sun’s strength and heat. Both the air and the upholstery in the car can quickly rise to temperatures so high that it’s impossible for a dog to adequately cool himself.
Why?
Because a dog’s normal body temperature is about 39 degrees C (102 degrees F). Raised by a mere two degrees for the briefest time, and heat exhaustion, irreparable brain damage, even death can occur
Why?
Because, unlike people, dogs don’t sweat. They can only cool themselves by panting and by releasing heat through their paws.
Despite repeated warnings in the media, instructive flyers distributed by animal welfare groups and word of mouth, countless animals still die, horrifically and needlessly, each year from heatstroke.
Despite the axiom that one person can’t make a difference, when presented with this type of life and death situation, one person can make ALL the difference.
And YOU may be that person.
If, for example, you see a dog in distress inside a car parked on the street or in a parking lot, note the make and model of the car, as well as its license plate number.
Call your local OSPCA branch, Humane Society, police or animal control immediately.
For OSPCA branch details, call: 1-800-668-7722.
Where possible, have buildings page their tenants and stores page their customers.
Watch the dog closely for some of the more obvious signs of heatstroke: exaggerated panting (or the sudden stopping of panting); an anxious or staring expression; restlessness; excessive salivation; muscle tremors and vomiting.
While waiting for either the owner or help to arrive, you might – wherever possible – act on your own.
If, by chance, the windows are opened or a door’s unlocked, extricate the dog as cautiously and carefully as you can – either alone or with assistance.
Then, if possible, get him into an air-conditioned car or nearby building. Otherwise, lay him down in a cool, shady place.
Wet him with cool water, but never apply ice to his body.
Fan him vigorously to speed the evaporation process, which, in turn, will cool the blood and reduce his temperature.
Give him cool water to drink or even ice cream to lick.
Hopefully, by now, help has arrived and you may have been responsible for saving some neglectful owner’s beloved, family pet.
A gentle reminder: don’t YOU become that same, neglectful owner.
What applies to a total stranger applies to you as well.
Remember there’s no such thing as “just for a minute.”
A recent ad from the OSPCA says it best:
“A hot car is no place for a dog. Leave me at home where it’s cool!”
Look at your own beloved, family pet and picture him speaking these words.
Perhaps it will make you think twice, then twice again, before heading out the door, leash in hand, on that vital, sixty-second errand.