Most people are aware of the very real danger that dogs can die in hot cars. Despite this, the RSPCA receives nearly 6000 phone calls each year from concerned members of the public who have spotted dogs that have been left unattended in rapidly heating vehicles.
Dogs lower their body temperature by pulling cool air into their mouths when panting. If the air is already warm, such as of that in a hot car, panting does not work and the dog is unable to cool down. Within minutes the dog will begin to suffer from the effects of heatstroke, which can very quickly lead to death. This situation is not solely restricted to hot vehicles either, the same can also occur when dogs are confined inside conservatories or caravans on warm days. In the event of such sad, yet preventable, deaths, reasons such as ‘I forgot he was in the car’ or ‘It didn’t feel that hot outside’ offer little consolation for the grieving owner. Under the Animal Welfare Act 2006, prosecution for causing unnecessary suffering to the animal is also a distinct possibility. It is important to realise that dogs should never be left alone in a vehicle and that leaving windows open, providing bowls of water, using a windscreen sunshield or parking in the shade will not make the situation safe for the dog. If you encounter a dog suffering from heatstroke (early signs include panting excessively, salivating and very rapid heartbeat), move him to a cool, shaded area and contact a vet immediately for advice. It is important to douse the dog with cool, but not cold, water in order to gradually lower his body temperature. Small amounts of cool water should also be offered for drinking and the dog should be taken to the vets for treatment. The RSPCA advises anyone who sees a dog left unattended in a car on a warm day to ring 999 immediately. © |