Prescott Police Issue Heat Warning About Leaving Pets in Cars
The Prescott Police Department would like to remind residents that “Hot car” dog fatalities are needless and all-too-common.
We understand you mean to be kind by taking you dog with you while you shop or run errands, but by doing so when the weather is warm can be a possible death sentence for your pet. Bringing them along in the car may not always be the best choice; and leaving them in the car at any time, but especially during the heat of summer could be fatal.
In fact, causing injury or death to an animal by intentionally, knowingly or recklessly leaving an animal unattended and confined in a motor vehicle is considered a misdemeanor in the State of Arizona (A.R.S.13-2910A.7).
The inside of a car heats up very quickly, dark colored cars especially. In a Stanford University study, when it was 72 degrees outside, a car’s internal temperature climbed to 116 degrees within one hour.
A dog’s normal body temperature is 101.0 to 102.5 Fahrenheit. A dog can withstand a body temperature of 107 to 108 degrees Fahrenheit for a short time before suffering irreparable brain damage, or even death. Brachycephalic breeds (short- nosed breeds like Bulldogs and Pugs) dogs with large, heavy coats or heart problems are even more at risk.
If you suspect heat stroke in your pet, SEEK VETERINARY ATTENTION IMMEDIATELY!
Heat stroke is deadly in a short amount of time.
Signs of heat stroke include (but are not limited to):
- Excessive panting
- Dark or bright red tongue or gums
- Staggering
- Stupor
- Seizures
- Coma
- Sticky or dry tongue
- Body temperature of 104 to 110 F degrees
- Death
We understand you mean to be kind by taking you dog with you while you shop or run errands, but by doing so when the weather is warm can be a possible death sentence for your pet.
What should people do if they see a dog in a hot car?
If the dog looks distressed (see above for signs of heat related illness),call the Police, the local Animal Control agency or 911 right away.
Leave your name and phone number with the person who takes the call in case responding Officers need more information.