As temperatures rise this summer, pet owners are being reminded that a parked vehicle can become dangerously hot in a matter of minutes, even when outdoor temperatures feel comfortable.
On a 70-degree day, the temperature inside a vehicle parked in the sun can climb to approximately 104 degrees within 30 minutes. During the first 10 minutes alone, interior temperatures can rise nearly 20 degrees. Cracking the windows provides little relief and often lowers temperatures by only a few degrees.
For dogs, those conditions can quickly become life-threatening.
Unlike humans, dogs cool themselves primarily through panting and limited sweating through their paw pads. Once a dog’s body temperature begins rising rapidly, heat stress can escalate into heatstroke. Veterinary experts warn that when a dog’s core temperature reaches 106 degrees, severe internal damage can occur.
At that point, the brain can begin to swell, kidneys may start shutting down, and organ failure can follow. The damage may become irreversible within a short period of time.
Flat-faced breeds such as Bulldogs, Pugs and Boston Terriers face even greater danger because they have more difficulty cooling themselves through panting. Older dogs, puppies and pets with underlying medical conditions are also at elevated risk.
If you see a dog left in a hot vehicle, contact local law enforcement or animal control immediately. Take note of the vehicle’s location, license plate number and the condition of the animal. Laws regarding intervention vary by state, but every minute matters during a heat emergency.
This summer, remember a simple rule: if it’s too warm for you to sit in a parked car, it’s too warm for your dog. A quick stop can become a tragedy in less time than many owners expect. Never leave pets unattended in vehicles, even for a few minutes.
