While some of us find the hot, humid weather uncomfortable, it can be downright deadly for your pet.
Many people like taking Fido along for a ride in the car, but Nova Scotia RCMP are urging pet owners to seriously think twice about that.
The interior of vehicles can heat up very quickly if you have to stop for an errand.
According to PETA, animals can sustain brain damage or even die from heatstroke in just 15 minutes.
Cpl. Jennifer Clarke says the public is very concerned when they see a dog in distress.
“It’s really not worth the risk of putting your animals at risk. If you need to stop while the dog is in the car with you, it’s best to leave the pet at home. People are just not willing to tolerate this. We find more and more people are looking out for the safety of animals.
Clarke says if you encounter a pet in distress in a vehicle you should first look for the owner of the car, try to provide shade or water for the animal then call police and remain at the car until officers arrive.
Cpl. Clarke says since June 1, provincial RCMP have received 69 complaints about animals being left unattended in vehicles.
She says in a worse-case scenario, charges could be laid.
“There’s a Criminal Code offence that does apply and also through the SPCA, there’s provincial legislation as well.
