Leaving Pets in the Car May Lead to Tragedy

During vacations, trips to the pool and other popular summer outings, the temptation to take our furry, four-legged family members along is nearly irresistible. As the summer temperatures soar, though, you may want to think twice before packing Fido up for that ride.

Although some stores welcome pets with open arms and owners of kittens and small dogs occasionally smuggle their pets inside, most animal companions wait patiently in the car while their people complete their human tasks. Although many pet owners realize and understand just how dangerous leaving a pet in a locked car on a hot day can be, most are not aware just how quickly a car can become a tomb.

According to the American Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals (ASPCA), the temperature inside a car can skyrocket to over 100 degrees in just ten minutes and to 120 degrees or higher in less than half an hour... and that's on an 85-degree day. In Southern states, such as Florida, an ambient temperature in the upper 90s coupled with oppressive humidity means than even five minutes in a car can spell doom for the family pet.

Because a dog's normal body temperature is around 101.5 degrees, the oven-like temperatures inside a parked, locked vehicle can lead to heat stroke and irreparable brain damage in only ten minutes. To demonstrate just how quickly ten minutes can pass, consider this factoid: ten minutes is about the time it takes to order, receive and consume a small (8-ounce) cup of coffee. If you leave your pet in the car while you pick up your coffee and maybe share some stories with a friend, you may be responsible for giving your pet heat stroke, brain damage or an early death.

In some states, such as Florida, you may also face criminal charges. Chapter 828 of the Florida Statutes very clearly defines "keep any animal in any enclosure without ... change of air" as animal cruelty, a misdemeanor criminal charge. This crime may be punishable by a fine of up to $5,000, time in prison or both. Of course, the effects on your pet will be much longer lasting.

If you're going out for the day or even for just a quick errand, the safest bet is to leave your pet at home. If you absolutely can not resist your adorable furry friend's begs to go along, though, the ASPCA offers a list of symptoms which may indicate your pet has suffered a heat stroke. According to their website, typical heat stroke symptoms include:

-Panting
-High body temperature
-Dehydration
-Red mouth/eye membranes
-Rapid, irregular heart rate
-Diarrhea
-Weakness, looking dazed
-Coma

If your pet exhibits any of these symptoms after even just a few minutes in a hot car, you should seek veterinary care immediately. To remain on the safe side, though, and show your pet how much you really do care, the best advice is to leave your pet at home in the air conditioning and return with a special treat such as a bone, peanut butter or other favorite treat.