Even on what feels like a mild day, the temperature inside a parked car can become deadly for a dog within minutes.
When it is just 22°C / 72°F outside, the temperature inside a car can rise to around 47°C / 117°F within 60 minutes.
Dogs do not sweat like humans. They mainly cool themselves by panting. Inside a hot, enclosed car, panting quickly becomes ineffective. Heat builds rapidly and dogs can suffer from heatstroke, organ failure, brain damage, or death.
Leaving windows slightly open, parking in the shade, or using sunshields is often not enough to keep the car cool and safe.
Short trips into a shop, “just five minutes,” or cloudy weather can still be dangerous.
If You See a Dog Left in a Hot Car
If you see a dog trapped in a car on a warm day and they appear distressed, contact the police or your local animal welfare organisation immediately.
Animal cruelty line: 0300 123 4999
If possible:
• Note the car registration, make, model, and location
• Try to locate the owner nearby
• Monitor the dog closely while help is on the way
Heatstroke: Early Warning Signs
Watch for:
• Heavy panting
• Excessive salivation or drooling
• Rapid pulse or heartbeat
• Very red or dark gums
• Lethargy or weakness
• Vomiting
• Diarrhoea
• Loss of coordination
• Collapse or inability to stand
• Loss of consciousness
Heatstroke is a medical emergency. A dog can deteriorate extremely quickly.
Heatstroke First Aid
If you suspect heatstroke:
Do not:
• Use ice baths or freezing water
• Force the dog to drink
• Cover the dog completely with wet towels, as this can trap heat
Prevention Is Always Safer
The safest option is simple:
Never leave your dog alone in a car during warm weather.
If dogs cannot safely accompany you inside, they are usually safer staying at home where it is cool, ventilated, and comfortable.
City Dog Expert is Europe’s number one resource for urban dogs.
As featured in Wall Street Journal, New York Press,
The Sun, Chicago Tribune & Financial Times