Mission Viejo Animal Services is reminding pet owners to refrain from leaving their pets in the car after receiving an influx of callers reporting animals left unattended in vehicles during the heat wave.
Even when the outside temperature is in the 60s, temperatures inside a car can reach dangerously high levels to an animal quickly.
“During a heat wave, as we have experienced in the recent weeks, a car can reach over 120 degrees in a matter of minutes,” said Animal Services Manager Gail DeYoung. “Leaving windows slightly opened or parking in the shade will not save your pet’s life. Animals succumb to heat stroke in a very short time, heatstroke that can lead to collapse, brain damage and possible death.”
Many people are unaware that leaving an animal in a car can be extremely dangerous – and it’s against the law. The owner or keeper of an animal can face fines and additional criminal charges (California Penal Code 597.7 Animal in Unattended Motor Vehicle). If you see an animal left in a car, call Mission Viejo Animal Services immediately at 949-470-3045 and provide the car make, model, color and license plate number.
Pet owners should also remember the following warm weather tips:
- To prevent overheating, do not let your dog exercise in hot weather. If you want to run with your dog, do it in the cool hours of the early morning or late evening.
- Dogs and cats need a cool, shady place to sleep during hot weather, as well as plenty of clean, fresh water accessible at all times. Feed your dog or cat in the cooler hours of the day. Older animals have a hard time in hot weather, so be extra sensitive to their needs during the hottest hours of the day.
- Be sure that your pet’s vaccinations are up to date. Parvovirus, an illness that flourishes in hot weather, can be fatal to dogs that have not received their vaccinations. Also, be sure your pet’s rabies vaccinations are current. During the summer months, pets often spend more time outdoors, and the chances of encounters with wildlife (possible rabies carriers) increase.
- Keep your pet well groomed. Daily brushing or combing lets you check for fleas and ticks. Fleas can cause allergic reactions and “hot spots” in dogs. Hot spots are large, wet skin sores that appear suddenly in areas where the dog has scratched. See your veterinarian for flea and tick preventives or if a “hot spot” appears.
- If you have a swimming pool, do not leave your dog unattended in the pool area. Not all dogs can swim—they can drown if they fall into the water.
