As the warmer months approach, you may start to hear people warn pet owners not to leave their pets in the car — especially with the windows all the way up — on a hot day. Some don’t realize that even when it is only 70 degrees Fahrenheit outside, the interior of a vehicle can become 104 degrees in just half an hour.
However, even when warned, pet owners still fail to listen. We still hear sad stories of pets and even infants and young children being left in vehicles on sweltering days, some of which are lucky to come out alive. One filmed incidence reminds us that leaving our furry (or scaled, feathered, etc.) friends in the car is a very serious situation that can potentially become a tragedy. The story also reminds us of how amazing our police officers are.
So, in the viral video, one police officer wasted no time breaking into a silver car without a second thought when a pit bull was locked inside with the windows completely rolled up. The officer chipped open a tiny window on the side of the right passenger seat, manually unlocked the door, and guided the overheated canine out of the vehicle.
Fortunately, the pup was safe, but he may not have made it out alive if he were in there even just a few more minutes. Excessive amounts of heat, even in a very short period of time, can be dangerous for both pets and humans alike.
One of the first things that occurs when in extreme heat is the inability to perspire. Heat can also quickly begin to affect the brain. It may cause confusion and loss of consciousness. High heat can also quickly take a toll on other parts of the body such as the circulatory system and nervous system. The potential for a heat stroke or even death is not uncommon when locked in a hot car.
With our canines being smaller than us, imagine how much quicker it could impact them, and not to mention, the fact that they cannot physically escape means results could be quicker and more unfortunate.
That said, nobody, not even adults, should stay in a hot car with the windows up on a warm or hot day. The risks are never worth it. Whenever you see a child or pet locked inside a hot car, letting the police handle it is your best option. A simple call truly can save a life!
Check out the incredible rescue in the video below, and share with your friends to spread more awareness!
