With record high temperatures across across the province, BC SPCA is reminding pet guardians not to leave their pets in parked vehicles.
“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.
“Last year, the BC SPCA responded to more than 800 calls about animals in distress in hot cars. 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.”
She notes that because dogs have no sweat glands, they can only cool themselves by panting and by releasing heat through their paws.
“Dogs cannot withstand high temperatures for long periods, particularly older pets and brachycephalic breeds such as pugs, bulldogs, Boston terriers and others with compressed faces.”
Chortyk says SPCA officers are called out to “worst case” situations every summer, where a beloved pet is in critical distress or has died after being left in a hot car.
“It is a completely preventable tragedy for both the poor animal and their distraught guardian.”
The BC SPCA urges pet guardians to leave their animals at home when running errands on a hot day. “If you will need to leave them in a parked vehicle, even for a few minutes, don’t take them. Your dog will be much happier – and safer – at home, with shade and plenty of fresh cool water.”
If you see an animal showing signs of heatstroke or other distress, please call the BC SPCA Call Centre at 1.855.622.7722 during business hours or contact your local animal control agency, RCMP or police.
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