Not Cool: Pet owners advised not to leave animals in hot vehicles

Leaving your pet in a hot car is Not Cool! says the Michigan Humane Society. The weather has been hot-hot-hot, and the trend will continue for the next several days, so it’s time to talk pet safety with Ryan McTigue from MHS.  

•    During summer days, the temperature in your car can heat up very quickly.  On an 85 degree day, the temperature inside your car with the windows cracked can reach 104 degrees within 10 minutes, and it will just go up from there.

•    Never leave pets (or children) in a warm car, not even for “just a minute” as you dash into a store. It’s extremely uncomfortable right away, and within minutes, can be deadly. It’s kinder to leave them at home.

•    Pets don’t sweat, they pant. So, they can’t cool themselves down efficiently breathing in that warm air. Plus, they’re wearing a furry coat. 

•    If you see an animal in distress in a parked car, ask the store to make an announcement or, if necessary, call the local animal control or police.

•    Exercise pets during the cooler morning and evening hours. Remember, short-nosed breeds like bulldogs and pugs are much more susceptible to heatstroke.

•    Make sure your pet always has access to fresh, cool water and shade. Better yet, bring pets inside during the heat of the day.