07/03/2025
Never leave your pet unattended in a parked car for any period of time!
ON A WARM DAY, the temperature in a car can exceed
120° in a matter of minutes—even with the windows
partially open. Your pet can quickly suffer brain damage
or die from heatstroke or suffocation.
IF YOUR PET IS EXPOSED TO HIGH TEMPERATURES:
• Look for signs of heat stress—heavy panting, glazed eyes, a
rapid pulse, unsteadiness, a staggering gait, vomiting or a deep
red or purple tongue.
• If your pet is overheated, move him to a cooler area and
take these emergency steps:
1. Gradually lower his body temperature by sprinkling cool
water on him. Do not soak him in cool or cold water because
his temperature could drop too low.
2. Place cool, wet towels over the back of the neck, in the
armpits, and in the groin area. You may also wet the ear
flaps and paws with cool water. Direct a fan on the wet areas
to speed evaporative cooling.
3. You may offer fresh, cool water if your dog is alert and wants
to drink. Do not force your pet to drink.
• Take your pet immediately to a veterinarian—it could save
his life. Call ahead, if possible, to be sure your veterinarian is
available.
• If you see an animal in a car exhibiting signs of heat stress,
call your local animal care and control agency or police
department immediately and take the following steps:
1. Get the vehicle’s tag number and enter the nearest store or
business to request an emergency announcement be made
about a pet left in a hot car.
2. Go back and wait for police at the vehicle.
In several states
Good Samaritans can legally remove animals from cars
under certain circumstances, so be sure to know the laws in your area and follow any steps required.
HEAT STRESS IS NOT THE ONLY DANGER YOUR PET FACES
when left alone in a car. Many pets are stolen each year from
unattended cars.
