Dangers of Locking a Dog in a Hot Car
Leaving a dog locked in a car, even for just a few minutes on a warm day, can lead to life-threatening heatstroke. As temperatures rise, the interior of a vehicle heats up incredibly quickly. On an 85 degree day, the temperature inside a car can soar to 102 degrees in just 10 minutes. After 30 minutes, interior temperatures can reach as high as 120 degrees. Dogs are unable to cool themselves effectively in these conditions.
As heat builds up inside the car, it puts immense strain on a dog’s body. A dog’s normal body temperature is 101-102.5 degrees Fahrenheit. When their temperature climbs to 105 degrees or higher, heatstroke sets in. At this point, irreparable organ damage and brain damage can occur. A temperature of 107 degrees is lethal. Tragically, hundreds of dogs die from heatstroke in hot cars every year.
In addition to the extreme heat, dogs left in cars suffer from a lack of ventilation and fresh air. As they pant heavily in an attempt to cool down, they can quickly deplete the available oxygen and choke on the accumulating carbon dioxide. This lack of oxygen further exacerbates overheating.
Being trapped in a hot car is an immensely stressful experience for dogs. They may anxiously claw and bite at the windows or dashboard in an attempt to escape. Their panicked whines or barks may go unheard outside the vehicle. If heatstroke sets in, they may lose consciousness and be unable to call for help at all.
Is It Ever Okay?
In some situations, leaving a dog alone in a locked car for a short time may be okay, but it depends on the temperature outside and a few other factors.
On a cool day, cracking the windows and leaving water may allow you to run a quick errand, as long as the dog is not showing signs of distress when you return. However, it’s best to avoid leaving them if at all possible.
In general, dogs should never be left alone in vehicles when it’s warm outside. Even with the windows down, temperatures can quickly rise to dangerous levels inside a parked car on a hot day.
If you need to make a stop with your dog on a warm day, it’s much safer to take them inside with you or leave them at home where it’s climate controlled.
State Laws on Leaving Dogs in Vehicles
Laws regarding leaving dogs unattended in vehicles vary by state. At least 30 states have laws that prohibit leaving an animal unattended in a motor vehicle under conditions that could endanger its health or well-being.
For example, in California, it’s illegal to leave or confine an animal in an unattended motor vehicle if conditions like heat, cold, lack of adequate ventilation, or lack of food or water can reasonably be expected to cause suffering, disability, or death. Those who violate this law can face a fine of $100-$500 for a first offense, and $500-$1,000 for subsequent offenses, as well as potential misdemeanor charges.
In Florida, it is illegal to confine a dog in a parked vehicle in a manner that endangers its health and well-being. Those who violate this can face up to $500 in fines, as well as potential felony charges if the confined dog suffers extreme physical pain, heat prostration, or death. Several other states have similar laws.
Some states like Tennessee go further and allow law enforcement to take action to remove a dog from a hot vehicle if deemed necessary, including breaking a window. Those who leave dogs unattended in unsafe conditions may still face fines and charges.
While laws are not uniform across all states, there is a general consensus that confining dogs in hot vehicles is dangerous and should be avoided whenever possible. Pet owners need to be aware of their state laws and the potential consequences of leaving dogs unattended in unsafe conditions.
If You See a Dog in a Hot Car
If you see a dog locked in a car on a hot day, it is crucial to act quickly. Even with the windows cracked, temperatures inside a vehicle can rapidly reach dangerous levels that put dogs at risk of heatstroke and death.
The first step is to note the car’s make, model, color, and license plate number. Then, see if you can locate the owner nearby. Check surrounding stores and ask around. If the owner cannot be found, immediately call the police or animal control and provide the vehicle details.
While waiting for authorities, see if a security guard or store manager can make an announcement. You may also consider leaving a note asking the owner to return. However, time is of the essence, so do not waste too much time seeking the owner.
If the owner does not promptly return and the dog seems to be in imminent danger, many states allow for good Samaritans to legally break a car window to save an animal in distress. However, it is best to let law enforcement handle this, as a last resort, to avoid potential liability.
Getting the dog to safety quickly is what matters most. Once out of the car, move the dog to a shaded area and offer water. Pouring cool (not cold) water over the dog may help lower body temperature. Monitor breathing carefully until emergency responders arrive.
Preventing Dogs From Being Locked In
There are several steps dog owners can take to help prevent accidentally locking their pet in a vehicle on a hot day.
Having identification on your dog, such as a collar tag with your phone number or an implanted microchip, increases the chances of you being contacted quickly if your dog is found locked in a vehicle. This allows you to come rescue them as soon as possible.
On very hot or cold weather days, it’s best to leave your dog at home rather than bringing them along in the car and risking them being trapped inside. Even quick trips can take longer than expected.
Train your dog not to jump out open windows in your home or vehicle. An untrained dog may jump out seeking fresh air and become lost or injured.
Signs of Heatstroke
Heatstroke is a life-threatening condition that can develop rapidly in dogs left inside hot vehicles. Some key signs of heatstroke in dogs include:
- Heavy panting
- Glazed eyes
- Rapid heartbeat
- Vomiting
- Diarrhea
As a dog’s body temperature rises, its ability to regulate its temperature becomes overwhelmed. The dog will begin panting heavily in an attempt to cool down. However, these attempts are often not enough, leading to a rapid increase in body temperature.
As heatstroke progresses, the dog may begin exhibiting glazed eyes, indicating neurological dysfunction. Heart and respiratory rates will elevate to dangerous levels. Vomiting and diarrhea can occur as the gastrointestinal tract begins to lose function.
Heatstroke requires emergency veterinary treatment to prevent permanent organ damage, seizures, coma, and death. If you suspect a dog is suffering from heatstroke, seek immediate medical care.
Treating Heatstroke
If your dog is showing signs of heatstroke such as excessive panting, lethargy, or loss of coordination, it is critical to take action immediately to prevent permanent organ damage or death. Here are the steps to take:
First, move your dog out of the hot environment and into shade or an air conditioned building. Apply ice packs to the neck, armpits, and groin area to quickly cool down the blood flow to the organs. Offer your dog cool, not cold, water in small amounts to prevent vomiting. Cool your dog gradually and avoid immersing in ice baths which can cause shock.
As soon as possible, transport your dog to the veterinarian clinic even if they seem to be recovering. Heatstroke can cause damage to the brain, heart, liver, and kidneys so your dog will need to be evaluated and supported with IV fluids. Quick action is essential to your dog’s survival and full recovery from heatstroke.
Leaving the AC On
While leaving the air conditioning on may seem like a good way to keep your dog cool in the car, it carries some risks that pet owners should consider.
First, there is the possibility that the AC could fail while you are away from the vehicle. Air conditioning systems can malfunction due to electrical or mechanical issues. This would leave your pet trapped in a hot vehicle with no cooling system running.
Additionally, the car’s battery may die if the AC runs for an extended period of time without the engine on. This would again leave your pet without a functioning cooling system. Modern vehicles are designed to prevent AC systems from fully draining the battery, but it is still possible if left for many hours.
For these reasons, it is recommended not to leave pets unattended in vehicles for long periods of time, even with the AC running. The risks are too high that the cooling system could fail and put your pet in danger. It is safer to leave your furry friend at home on hot days rather than locked in a vehicle.
Alternatives to Leaving in Car
If you need to run errands but don’t want to leave your dog waiting in the car, there are several alternatives to consider:
Dog sitters or daycare
Hiring a dog sitter to stay with your dog at home or taking them to doggy daycare are great options. Your dog will get attention, playtime, and comfort while you’re gone.
Dog-friendly stores
An increasing number of stores, especially pet supply shops, now allow dogs. Before running errands, look up which stores near you are dog-friendly. Bring your leashed dog inside while shopping.
Leave at home
If possible, simply leave your dog at home when running errands, preferably with access to water, toys, and a comfortable area. Only leave them for short periods and avoid leaving dogs home alone for more than 4-6 hours.
Creating Dog-Friendly Habits
While hot cars present a serious danger to pets, there are ways to cultivate dog-friendly habits that keep your furry friends safe and comfortable. Here are some tips:
Plan Ahead on Outings
When preparing to go out, especially in warm weather, always consider your dog’s needs. Look at the forecast and temperatures to determine if it’s appropriate to bring them along. Identify pet-friendly establishments in advance so you’re prepared with options if needed. Have an idea of when and where you’ll stop to allow them a restroom/water break.
Make Arrangements for Pets
If an outing isn’t pet-friendly, make arrangements to leave them comfortably at home. Hire a dog sitter, drop them at doggie daycare, or ask a friend/family member to watch them. Leaving them crated indoors is far safer than leaving them waiting in the car.
Educate Others on Dangers
Spread awareness to pet owners about the risks of leaving dogs in hot vehicles. Share tips on social media, speak up when you see unsafe situations, and lead by example taking your pets on appropriate outings. Your advocacy could save an animal’s life.