BC SPCA reminding owners not to leave pets in cars during upcoming heatwave

As the Lower Mainland looks to swelter through temperatures in the 30s next week, the BC SPCA is reminding pet owners about the dangers of leaving animals in cars.

According to the animal advocate service, the organization responded to more than 800 calls last year about animals in distress inside hot cars.

“We can’t stress strongly enough how dangerous it is to leave your pet in a hot car,” said Lorie Chortyk, general manager of communications for the BC SPCA. “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.”

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As dogs don’t have sweat glands, they’re only able to cool themselves down by panting and releasing heat through their paws. Dogs aren’t able to handle high temperatures for long periods, and older dogs, and those with shorter snouts, such as pugs, bulldogs, and Boston terriers, are even more vulnerable.

Chortyk said SPCA officers are called out to devastating results 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,” she said.

The organization is urging pet owners to consider leaving 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 [with you]. Your dog will be much happier, and safer, at home, with shade and plenty of fresh cool water.”

Symptoms of heat stroke in pets can include exaggerated panting, rapid or erratic pulse, salivation, weakness or muscle tremors, vomiting, and collapsing. If you think an animal is struggling, immediately move them to a cool, shady place, wet them with water, give them a drink, and take them to see a vet as soon as possible.

If you see a dog in distress in a parked vehicle, the animal organization says to report the situation to the BC SPCA, animal control, or your local police agency.

However, it notes that it is illegal for members of the public to break a window to access the vehicle themselves — only the police and special BC SPCA members can lawfully enter vehicles.