The Ontario SPCA has initiated an online campaign that is winning awards and spreading beyond the web with #NoHotPets, an initiative to help educate the public about the severe dangers of leaving pets in the car in the summer and encourage them to take their pets with them when the car is parked.

Every year pet fatalities occur as a result of being left in hot cars by their owners. Last year, this blog covered the same topic. The #NoHotPets website and campaign has included a set of “Fast Facts”, as detailed below:

• SPCAs across Canada receive hundreds of reports of pets being left in cars every year.
• Parked cars can quickly reach deadly temperatures, even on relatively mild days with the car parked in the shade and the windows slightly open.
• Dogs have a limited ability to sweat; even a short time in a hot environment can be life-threatening. A dog's normal body temperature is about 39°C and a temperature of 41°C can be withstood only for a very short time before irreparable brain damage or even death can occur.
• If you can’t take your pet with you when you leave your car, leave them at home where they are safe.
• It’s imperative that each of us as animal owners is responsible in providing the proper care for our pets. As such, leaving a pet unattended in a vehicle is one of the most irresponsible things a pet owner can do.
• Owners who choose to leave pets unattended in vehicles, may face charges under the Ontario SPCA Act or the Criminal Code of Canada.
• If heat stroke is suspected (excessive panting and drooling, listlessness or unconsciousness) prompt veterinary medical attention is vital. In the meantime, wet the fur immediately with lukewarm to cool water, not cold water. Bring the pet into the shade and offer drinking water.

#NoHotPets encourages all Ontarians to get involved and spread the word about the dangers of leaving pets in hot vehicles, including a pledge and contest. Visit NoHotPets.ca for more information today.

Because our pets do not sweat, they are even less able to cope with extreme hot temperatures than we are. Heat stroke is swift to set in, leading to a number of deaths each year. Just because windows might be open on a vehicle does not mean that the temperature will not rise to potentially deadly levels. If your pet is showing signs of heatstroke, call your local emergency veterinary clinic immediately.

If you do notice a pet that has been left in a hot vehicle this summer, contact the Ontario SPCA or local humane society or call the police.

Ontario SPCA
310-7722
cruelty@ospca.on.ca

Community Contacts Directory For Local OSPCA & Humane Society Branches