With temperatures soaring this summer, police across Northern Ontario are reminding pet owners that leaving a dog unattended in a vehicle—even for a few minutes—can be deadly and is against the law.
Penalties for Leaving a Dog in a Car
Under Ontario's animal welfare laws, leaving a dog in a hot car can lead to fines of up to $10,000, jail time, or a lifetime ban on owning animals. The risk of heatstroke is severe, as temperatures inside a parked car can rise rapidly, even on mild days.
Police say that on a 26°C day, the inside of a car can reach 49°C in 20 minutes. Dogs cannot cool themselves as efficiently as humans, and heatstroke can occur quickly, leading to organ failure and death.
What to Do If You See a Dog in a Hot Car
Authorities urge the public to call 911 or the local animal control if they see a dog in distress. Signs of heatstroke include excessive panting, drooling, lethargy, and vomiting. In extreme cases, bystanders may break a window to rescue the animal, but they should first contact police.
Police emphasize that there is no excuse for leaving a pet in a car, even with the windows cracked or in the shade. The safest option is to leave pets at home with plenty of water and shade.
Community Awareness
Local animal shelters are also spreading awareness through social media campaigns. The message is simple: if you love your pet, don't leave them in the car.
