Grey County Ontario Provincial Police (OPP) remind residents to think about their pets now that the hot weather is here. Leaving your pet unattended in a vehicle is one of the most irresponsible decisions a pet owner can make. Your pet's safety is your responsibility. Placing them in a dangerous environment could not only be harmful, it could be fatal.

Each year police receive complaints from concerned citizens regarding animals left unattended in parked vehicles during hot weather conditions.

When your pet accompanies you on a drive, remember that they need to go with you when you leave your vehicle. If your pet can't accompany you, make sure you leave them at home where they will be safe, cool and comfortable.

On a hot day, the temperature inside your vehicle will quickly become much hotter than the outside temperature. When your pet is left unattended in a hot vehicle, it's not just uncomfortable for them - it's life threatening.

Dogs in particular have very limited ability to sweat. Even a short period of time in a hot environment can cause suffering and distress and could result in brain damage or even death.

If you come across an unattended vehicle with an animal inside that appears to be in distress, act quickly and report it to your local police service or your local Ontario Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals (OSPCA) at 519-310-SPCA (7722).

QUICK FACTS

- Excessive panting, drooling and listlessness are signs of heatstroke in animals. If you witness these signs in your pet, seek veterinary attention immediately, move the animal to a cool area and offer it drinking water.

- Leaving a pet unattended in a vehicle could result in charges being laid under the OSPCA Act and/or the Criminal Code.

LEARN MORE

Tips for travelling with pets in summer

source: media release, Grey County OPP