Dogs die in hot cars

08 July 2016

PDSA is one of twelve organisations that have teamed up to spread an important message among dog owners this summer.

Rescue and rehoming charities, veterinary, police, and welfare organisations are all working together to ensure owners know the dangers the warm weather can pose to dogs over the summer months. The message is clear – ‘not long’ is too long.

Thousands of reports of dogs suffering from heat exposure are received every year - that equates to one call every hour. Although RSPCA records these calls as heat exposure in dogs – which can include dogs outside who are suffering from the heat, or dogs in conservatories or caravans – the majority of these incidents are dogs in hot cars.

Dog’s Trust, The Kennel Club and #TeamOtis are the latest groups to join the campaign, which is in its second year, with the support of PDSA, Battersea Dogs & Cats Home, Blue Cross, British Veterinary Association (BVA), The Mayhew Animal Home, National Animal Welfare Trust, The National Police Chiefs Council (NPCC) and Wood Green Animal Shelter.

To raise awareness and highlight the real danger of leaving dogs in cars, even on a seemingly mild day, the RSPCA has worked with the partnering organisations to make a new short film.

This is accompanied by leaflets and posters explaining to the public what action should be taken on discovering a dog left in a car, which are available to download on PDSA’s website.

PDSA Vet, Rebecca Ashman advises: “In the first instance, check if the dog is in distress – heavy panting, excessive salivation, lethargy or appearing uncoordinated are all early signs of heatstroke.

This could mean the dog’s life is in danger and it’s best to call 999. If the dog isn’t showing any of these signs then try to establish how long they have been in the car (check for a pay and display ticket), then try to locate the owner.”

For more advice on how to keep your pets safe and happy in the sunshine, read our Summer pet health advice.

PDSA is the UK’s leading veterinary charity, treating 470,000 pets annually across its 51 Pet Hospitals. The charity strives to improve all pets’ lives through education, preventive care and emergency treatment.

Dogs die in hot cars. Remember: 'not long' is too long.