With the warmer weather fast approaching, the B.C. SPCA and the province are cautioning pet owners not to leave fur babies in hot cars.
A new public awareness campaign, titled #hotpetsnotcool, was announced Thursday (today) in celebration of Animal Protection Day, which aims to bring awareness to the importance of treating all animals with the respect and care they deserve.
The following are some fast facts on caring for animals during the hot summer months, courtesy of the government and SPCA:
- During warm weather, or on a humid day, temperatures in vehicles can rise sharply in 10 to 20 minutes, even in the shade with the windows partly open, and can rapidly reach a level that will seriously harm or even kill your pet. To a dog in car, it can be a matter of life or death.
- Owners who expose pets to excessive heat can be charged under the province’s Prevention of Cruelty to Animals Act, with maximum penalties of $75,000 fines and two-year imprisonment.
- Not every dog in every car needs to be rescued. Learn to spot the signs of a dog in distress before acting. Signs include:
- Exaggerated panting (or the sudden stopping of panting)
- Salivation
- Anxious or staring expression
- Weakness or muscle tremors
- Lack of coordination
- Convulsions or vomiting
- Unresponsive to tapping at window
