Summer Weather: Pets in Vehicles

Leaving Pets in Vehicles

The Lebanon Police Department urges people to simply leave pets at home when you are going on trips that would require your pet to be left in a vehicle unattended. Pets are especially susceptible to heat as they are much less efficient at cooling themselves as people are. 

Most people do not realize how quickly the temperature within a vehicle can rise. Researchers found that with outside temperatures as low as 72 degrees, a car’s interior can heat up by an average of 40 degrees within an hour, with 80% of that increase within the first 30 minutes.

Cracking the Window

A cracked window provides little relief from the oven effect. The research shows a cracked window had an insignificant effect on both the rate of heating and the final temperature after an hour. 

In the case of a heat-related pet emergency, you should be aware of the following symptoms that could be due to heat stress: Heavy panting, glazed eyes, a rapid heartbeat, restlessness, excessive thirst, lethargy, fever, dizziness, lack of coordination, profuse salivation, vomiting, a deep red or purple tongue, unconsciousness. 

If the animal shows symptoms of heatstroke, take steps to gradually lower their body temperature by moving the animal into the shade or an air-conditioned area, applying ice packs to their head, neck, chest or immerse them in cool (not cold) water, let them drink small amounts of water or lick ice cubes, and get to a vet immediately. The simplest thing to do is to leave your pet at home. When you want to take your pet for a ride, make it a trip where both of you can enjoy the destination.