With the heat wave going on across the province and warm summer weather in general, it's important to remember the safety of our animals. Leaving a pet in a vehicle on a hot day or even a mild day can lead to serious health problems or death in a short period of time.
In a study conducted at San Fransisco State University, it was shown that if the temperature outside is at 32 degrees celcius for example, after just 10 minutes, the inside of the car will increase to 43 degrees celcius. After one hour at that same temperature, it can rise to 56 degrees. Even on those milder days, the inside temperature of a vehicle can rise quickly.
After 10 minutes with an outside temperature of 21 degrees celcius, the temperature inside the vehicle can reach up to 32, while in one hour at 21, it can reach to 45 degrees. It was also stated in the study that cracking a window or parking in the shade did not have much impact on how hot a vehicle gets.
As dogs have a limited ability to sweat, the effects of a hot vehicle are exacerbated for them, which means they can overheat or go into medical distress quickly.
If you see a dog inside a vehicle, it is encouraged to call 911, as police can free it much quicker than an Alberta SPCA Peace Officer.
Some of the signs of heat stroke in dogs include listlessness, excessive panting, restlessness and the pet appearing distressed.
Some of the things people can do if they notice a dog suffering from heat stroke is moving to a cool or shaded area and directing a fan over them, placing cool, wet towels over the back of their neck, in the armpits and in the groin area, wetting their ear flaps and paws with cool water and transporting them to a vet clinic immediately.
Things not to do with the animal are forcing water into the pet, and instead having it available to them, overcooling the animal and leaving the pet unattended for any length of time.
Dog owners can be charged under the Animal Protection Act for leaving their dog in a hot vehicle. If convicted, they could face a maximum fine up to $20,000 and a lifetime prohibition from owning animals.
-With files from The Alberta SPCA
