Oreo, a 4-year-old female Border Collie who is available for adoption at the Animal Welfare League of Alexandria, is enjoying the beautiful weather with access to shade and lots of water. Natalie Boyd Kinzey
Alexandria — Dog owners understandably want to spend as much time as possible with their pet. As summer arrives, it seems cruel to leave your dog at home when you go out. It can be very tempting to bring your dog along for your round of errands when he is staring at you with those big brown eyes. Unfortunately it can be very dangerous, and illegal, to leave your dog in the car while you shop.
Just like children, dogs left in a car can quickly suffer from heat exhaustion, putting them at risk of injury or even death. The Department of Geosciences at San Francisco State University conducted a study of the effect of sunny days on the inside temperature of a car. A pleasant day of 70 degrees outside can result in a car with a scorching 104 degree temperature inside in just 30 minutes. If it is 90 degrees outside, a common temperature for July and August here in northern Virginia, your car’s temperature can rise by 20 degrees in just 10 minutes. Even a quick trip into the drug store can result in unintended harm to your animal.
"In 2013, our Animal Control Officers investigated 115 calls for animals left in vehicles," said Megan Webb, executive director of the Animal Welfare League of Alexandria. "We want to make sure people in our community understand that leaving your dog in the care in the heat, even for a quick trip to the store, can result in unintended harm to their animal."
It is important to keep your pets inside as much as possible when it is hot. If it is too hot for you, it is too hot for your pet. When you are outside with your pet in hot weather, keep an eye out for signs of heat stroke which include extended heavy panting, weakness, and confusion. If your dog is acting unusual, it is a very likely he is struggling physically. To keep your pet safe, always ensure cold water is available for your animal and get him into shade if possible. Return to your home as soon as possible where they can relax, enjoy the air conditioning, and get their core temperature down.
So remember, if you are running errands, the best bet is to leave your dog at home. If you are out playing, keep plenty of water available. Your dog will appreciate it.
Animal Welfare League of Alexandria