A new Oregon law that went into effect last month expands protections for people who come to the aid of children and pets left alone in parked cars during sweltering summer days. Under the new law, members of the public are not liable for damages resulting from entering a vehicle if they believe that an animal or child is at imminent danger of suffering serious harm.
Temperatures inside cars can become oven-like in twenty minutes or less, putting pets and people at serious risk of heat-stroke or death. The new law would protect people from damages if they must break into a car to save a life. Concerned citizens should first attempt to locate the car’s owner and contact the local animal control agency or police department; breaking a car window should be considered a last resort.
The Oregon Humane Society offers these dos and don’ts to help keep pets safe in hot weather:
DON’T:
- Don’t walk, jog, or play fetch with your dog during the heat of the day. Instead, walk and play with your pets in the cool of the evening and morning.
- Don’t let Fido ride in an uncovered pickup bed in the heat of the day. The sun heats up the metal truck bed and can burn a pet’s paw pads.
- Don’t leave pets unattended outside when it gets too hot – bring pets inside.
DO:
- Do keep your pets inside the house, with plenty of water. The best place for your pet to be during the heat of the day is inside with you – especially if you have an air conditioner or fan.
- Do give outside pets lots of shade and plenty of water to drink if it is not possible to bring them indoors.
- Do get a kiddie pool and fill it with water for your dogs to splash and play in. They will love it.
Symptoms of heatstroke could include restlessness, excessive thirst, heavy panting, lethargy, lack of appetite, dark red tongue or gums, vomiting, and lack of coordination. Contact your veterinarian if your pet exhibits these symptoms.
If your pet is overcome by heat exhaustion, immediately immerse or spray the animal with cool running water (avoid cold water as that could cause shock) and continue until the body temperature lowers. Give your pet water to drink and consult your veterinarian right away to determine if additional treatment is needed.
More information about heat hazards for pets can be found online at: http://www.oregonhumane.org/hot-weather-safety-for-pets-resources/