The RSPCA explain: "Many people still believe that it’s ok to leave a dog in a car on a warm day if the windows are left open or they’re parked in the shade, but the truth is, it’s still a very dangerous situation for the dog.
"A car can become as hot as an oven very quickly, even when it doesn’t feel that warm. When it’s 22 degrees, in a car it can reach an unbearable 47 degrees within the hour."
So what should you do if you spot a dog in a car on a hot day?
Taking advice from the RSPCA and the police, we have answered some of your most commonly asked questions below.
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Who should I call first?
If you see a dog struggling in a hot car, Thames Valley Police advise that you call the RSPCA on 0300 1234 999, and inform them of the condition of the dog, the car's registration number, and its location.
Once you have given them this information, they should send an inspector to deal with the situation and help the stricken animal.
If it is necessary to break into the car, they will call the police.
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When should I call the police?
If the RSPCA cannot respond quickly, and the dog looks to be at a serious risk of death (see below), you should call 999 and ask for the police.
Find out how long it will take for them to get there before deciding on what to do next.
3. How can I tell if the dog is in serious distress?
If dogs are too hot and are unable to reduce their body temperature by panting, they will develop heatstroke which can kill.
According to the RSPCA, the warning signs of heatstroke in dogs are:
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The dog is panting heavily
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The dog is drooling excessively
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The dog appears lethargic, drowsy or uncoordinated
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The dog has collapsed
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The dog is vomiting
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Should I break into the car myself?
If the dog is in clear distress and showing signs of heatstroke (see symptoms listed above), and there is no help available, your first instinct may be to break into the car to free the dog.
If you decide to do this, please be aware that without proper justification, this could be classed as criminal damage and, potentially, you may need to defend your actions in court.
West Mercia Police advise: “If the situation becomes critical for the dog and the police are too far away/unable to attend, many people’s instinct will be to break into the car to free the dog.
“If you decide to do this, please be aware that, without proper justification, it could be classed as criminal damage and, potentially, you may need to be prepared to defend your actions in court.”
However they add that, while it’s illegal to smash a car usually, the law could be on your side in this case.
They explain: “The law states that you have a lawful excuse to commit damage if you believe that the owner of the property that you damage would consent to the damage if they knew the circumstances (section 5(2)(a) Criminal Damage Act 1971).”
In short, only break the window if there is justification and you believe the owner would agree to the damage if they knew the circumstances.
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If I decide to break into the car myself, what do I need to do to protect myself?
West Mercia Police advise that you take pictures and video of the dog in distress as evidence.
They also add that you should tell the police that you intend to break the vehicle's window, and why.
They explain: “Make sure you tell the police what you intend to do and why, and take images/footage of the dog and the names and numbers of witnesses to the incident.”
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What should I do with the dog once I have freed them from the hot car?
For the best chance of survival, dogs suffering from heatstroke urgently need to have their body temperature lowered gradually.
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Move him/her to a shaded/cool area.
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Immediately douse the dog with cool (not cold) water, to avoid shock. If possible, you can also use wet towels or place him/her in the breeze of a fan.
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Allow the dog to drink small amounts of cool water.
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Continue to douse the dog with cool water until his/her breathing starts to settle but never so much that he/she begins to shiver.
Once the dog is cool, take him/her to the nearest vet as a matter of urgency.
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What do I do if the dog’s owner returns before help arrives?
Make a note of the car’s registration. If the owner returns, but you still feel the situation was dangerous for the dog, you may still report the incident to the police.
So, in short, you should:
Call the RSPCA’s cruelty line for advice any time on 0300 1234 999.
However, if the dog is in danger, dialling 999 should always be the first step.