Pet owners should not leave their animal in the car – even for a few minutes – when the hot weather arrives. The inside temperature of the car can quickly reach 120 degrees. Pet owners are urged to refrain from leaving animals in the car, even with the windows cracked open.

Did you know that leaving a pet in a car on a warm day can be fatal? Pets can suffer brain damage or die of heatstroke in just 15 minutes. Every year thousands of pets suffer because they can only cool themselves by panting and sweating through their foot pads.

Pets may be at risk for heatstroke if they exhibiting some or all of the following signs of distress:

  • Restlessness
  • Excessive thirst
  • Heavy panting
  • Lethargy
  • Lack of appetite
  • Darkened tongue
  • Rapid heartbeat
  • Fever
  • Drooling
  • Glassy eyes
  • Vomiting
  • Lack of coordination

Pets at greatest risk of heatstroke are young pets, elderly pets, overweight pets, pets with shortened muzzles (pugs, boxers, etc.), and those with thick or dark coats.

If a pet shows these symptoms, he should be brought into the shade immediately and you should contact your veterinarian. You may be advised to provide small amounts of water to drink, apply a cold towel or icepack to the pet’s head, neck or chest, or immerse your dog in lukewarm water to begin lowering his body temperature prior to transport to the hospital.

If you do see a pet in distress, take down the car’s color, make, model and license plate number. Have the owner paged in the nearest buildings or call the police/local animal control. Don’t leave the scene until the situation has been resolved. Be a part of the solution and get involved.

Mesquite City Ordinance 10-5-6 B It is unlawful for any person to confine an animal in a motor vehicle under conditions or for such a period of time as may endanger the health of such animal due to heat, cold, lack of food or water or other circumstances that could reasonably be expected to cause suffering. Total bail $500.00