As the country finally basks in some summer sunshine, Dogs Trust has issued a reminder to dog owners that there is no safe amount of time to leave dogs alone in a car during the hot weather – even a few minutes could prove to be fatal.
The charity is warning owners that the temperature inside a car could rise to dangerously high levels in just a few minutes, leading to any dogs inside the car suffering with heatstroke. In some cases, heatstroke can lead to the death of the dog.
Dogs Trust has shared its Dogs Die in Hot Cars video to highlight the issue of leaving dogs in cars on hot days. If you see a dog in a car in distress, the charity advises that members of the public call 999.
Dogs Trust is also reminding owners that exercising dogs in warm weather can lead to severe health problems in our canine companions – three-quarters of heat stroke cases are triggered by exercise – and even short walks in the heat should be avoided.
Charlie Dobson, senior vet at Dogs Trust, said: “After so many weeks of grey skies, it’s lovely to finally enjoy some summer sunshine. But while the warm weather may lift our spirits, it can pose serious health risks to our dogs.
“Unlike humans, dogs struggle to cool themselves down effectively, which means they’re much more vulnerable in high temperatures, especially during exercise or when left in a vehicle. Even with the wind
ows cracked open, it simply isn’t safe to leave a dog in the car at any time in this heat.
“The good news is that these risks are avoidable. Walking your dog during the cooler times of day, keeping their activity levels lower, ensuring they have a shady spot to rest, and providing constant access to fresh water can all help keep them safe.
“And above all, never leave your dog alone in a hot car—not even for a few minutes.”
