Every year, countless pets suffer needlessly due to being left in hot vehicles. According to PETA, in 2024 alone, 111 animals died from heat-related causes, and 388 were rescued from overheating, and that’s only the reported cases. These tragic incidents are entirely preventable.
The Dangers of Leaving Dogs in Hot Cars
Even on a seemingly mild day, the inside of a parked car can become dangerously hot in minutes. For example:
- On a 70°F day, the inside of a car can reach 99°F in just 20 minutes.
- On a 90°F day, temperatures inside a vehicle can soar to 109°F in only 10 minutes.
Within 15 minutes, a dog left inside a hot car can experience heatstroke, brain damage, or even death. Dogs don’t sweat like humans and can overheat quickly. What may feel like “just a few minutes” could turn deadly.
What to Do If You See a Dog in a Hot Car
Don’t wait, take action. Your quick response could save a life.
Many states offer Good Samaritan Laws otherwise known as the Right to Rescue Act, that protect you if you rescue an animal in distress from a hot car.
Key conditions under the Good Samaritan Law include:
- Good Faith: You must act with honest intent to help, not for personal gain.
- Reasonable Care: Your actions must be cautious and appropriate.
- No Gross Negligence: You won’t be protected if you act recklessly or irresponsibly.
Before taking action, make sure you are aware of how the Good Samaritan Law applies in your state. Additionally, always check if the car is unlocked. If it’s locked and you’re sure the animal is in danger, a tool like the resqme® car escape tool can help.
How the resqme® Tool Can Help
The resqme® tool is a compact, 2-in-1 device that cuts seat belts and breaks tempered-glass car windows. Designed for emergencies, it’s also effective for rescuing animals trapped in vehicles. To use it:
- Locate one of the car’s side tempered glass windows (not the windshield).
- Make sure the window you are breaking is at the opposite side of where the dog is located to avoid causing any harm with the debris of broken glass.
- Press the black tip of the tool firmly into one of the window’s corners.
- The glass will shatter instantly, allowing you to safely remove the dog.
After the rescue:
- Move the dog to a shaded or air-conditioned area.
- Offer cool (not ice-cold) water in small amounts. Dogs may want to gulp it down, but too much water too fast can be harmful.
- Call emergency services to report the incident.
- Do not immediately return the dog to the owner—leaving a pet in a hot car is considered animal cruelty and may result in legal consequences.
Know the Signs of Heat Exhaustion in Dogs
If you suspect a dog is suffering from heatstroke, look for these symptoms:
- Heavy or excessive panting
- Drooling or foaming at the mouth
- Bright red or darkened tongue and gums
- Lethargy or weakness
- Rapid heart rate
- Vomiting or diarrhea
- Collapse or unresponsiveness
If you observe these signs, act quickly. Every second counts.
Prevention Starts With Awareness
It’s easy to get distracted by errands or appointments, but remember: your pet depends on you. Never leave your dog unattended in a vehicle, even with the windows cracked. Temperatures rise faster than most people realize.
While you’re out, stay alert. Look around parking lots for pets left in cars and be prepared to act if you see an animal in danger. With the right tools and knowledge, you could save a life.
