Summer’s first heatwave is upon us and the Humane Society of Oakville, Milton & Halton (HSOMH) is reminding pet owners that hot weather can quickly become dangerous for animals, especially those left unattended in vehicles.
A parked car can become dangerously hot within minutes, even on a mild day. Cracked windows, shade, and quick errands do not provide enough protection from rising temperatures, which can put pets at serious risk.
Leaving an animal unattended in a hot vehicle can result in charges under Ontario’s Provincial Animal Welfare Services (PAWS) Act or the Criminal Code of Canada.
No Hot Pets, No Excuses
Every summer, animal welfare organizations hear the same reasons pets are left behind:
I’m only going in for a few minutes. The car is parked in the shade. The windows are open. I left the air conditioning running.
But heat can build quickly, and unexpected delays can happen. A longer-than-planned stop, a lineup, or an emergency could put your pet’s life at risk.
The best plan is simple: leave your pet at home where they are safe, comfortable, and cool.
Understanding the Risks
Dogs, cats, and other pets can struggle in hot conditions. Dogs are especially vulnerable because they rely primarily on panting to regulate their body temperature and have a limited ability to cool themselves.
A dog’s normal body temperature is approximately 39 C. Once their temperature rises to around 41 C, they can experience severe health complications, including organ damage, brain injury, or death.
Pets can begin showing signs of distress quickly in warm environments. Heat affects animals differently depending on their size, breed, age, coat type, and overall health.
Know the Signs of Heat Stress
If a pet is overheating, early signs may include heavy panting, drooling, weakness, or acting unusually tired.
If you notice signs of heat exhaustion:
- Move your pet to a shaded or air-conditioned area
- Offer fresh water
- Allow them time to rest and cool down
Heat stroke is a medical emergency. Symptoms can include extreme panting, drooling, confusion, collapse, or loss of consciousness. Immediate veterinary care is needed.
While arranging transport to a veterinarian, begin cooling your pet by wetting their fur with lukewarm to cool water (never ice-cold water), offering water to drink, and moving them into a cooler environment.
If You See a Pet Left in a Hot Vehicle
If you see an animal in distress inside a vehicle:
- Call 911 immediately
- Provide the vehicle’s make, model, licence plate, and exact location
- Stay nearby and monitor the situation if it is safe to do so
Police officers and Provincial Animal Welfare Services (PAWS) officers have the authority to enter a vehicle when necessary to help an animal in distress.
Keeping pets safe during extreme heat is a shared responsibility. A little planning can help prevent a frightening situation and keep animals healthy all summer long.
