With the onset of summer months, it is a gentle reminder for pet parents to not keep their pets in a locked car. It has been told since ages that pets are at a risk of life when they are locked inside a car. There are plenty of reasons for this warning. The biggest of all is that it is life threatening as the pet may get heat stroke. Even if the windows are left a little open then also there are fair chances of fatal situations inside a car.
Studies have suggested that be it summer or cooler days, a closed car can get heated up to higher temperatures. Moreover, pets cannot cool themselves as we humans can and hence fall trap in a locked car. It is also said that just like sun can create greenhouse in winter months, similarly it can heat up a car even if the temperatures outside are nominal. This is the reason why pets should not be left inside a car even if it is winters.
Things that do not work out for pets in a parked car:
- Cracked windows do not work out.
- Running air conditioners to cool off the car also do not work.
- Keeping the car in shade also does no good.
On being exposed to extra heat, the pets may suffer from heat stroke, stress, increased body temperatures, glazed eyes, panting, vomiting etc. These signs suggest that the pet has suffered from a heat stroke and thus needs to be treated at the earliest. This happens more to short-nosed breeds of dogs, obese pets, senior pets, too young pets that are unable to cool themselves off.
Measures to be taken when pets suffer from heat stress:
- First of all, take the pet in a shady area. Gradually pour cool water over his entire body. This will aid in cooling off the heat from the pet’s body.
- You can make ice packs and put them on the pet’s head, neck and chest.
- Let the pet lick ice cubes or allow him to drink small quantities of cool water.
- After doing this primary treatment, take the pet to the nearest vet and get him the much-needed medical help at the earliest.
In addition to all this, it is a legal violation and a form of animal cruelty to keep the pets locked inside a car. It can put you in legal trouble. So, if you have some emergency or you are going to enter an area that does not allow pets, just leave the pets at home. If you live alone then take help of a pet sitter. Moreover, you can inform local police or security personnel if you find any pets sitting aloof in a locked car. To end it all, just become a responsible pet parent and a dutiful citizen to avoid threats to a pet’s life. All the best!
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