She only had one bag which meant she hadn't been too long which I was happy about. But none the less, even a few minutes can be too long. The woman said to me "I didn't think it was very hot out." As I stood there I couldn't believe what she was saying. It was hot, freaking hot and humid which is odd for this area. The dog in the back was panting heavily and obviously overheating. I told her everything that can happen in a car and that it doesn't have to be 100 degrees out for it to happen.
As I told her the sad facts of what can happen to a dog left in a car she apologized to me. She apologized several times and didn't get angry at all. I am accustom to being yelled at or thrown some choice words in warning when I intervene. When I approached her initially I had my back up big time, I was mad. But as I explained, she listened and apologized more. My anger turned to educating. I told her to tell all her friends.
The word needs to be spread, how can we get this message out? I have a cut off temperature much lower than most. I think even in 65 degree weather with the sun out can be dangerous. Why do it? Just leave your dogs at home. I truly don't get it. The only time my dogs are in the car when I go in somewhere is if I have to run in when we were out. Also only if it is cold out.
Cars heat up extremely fast. Here is an illustration.
An Arizona police dog was left in a patrol car this week and had to be euthanized shortly after. This was a case of life getting too hectic. The handler of the dog forgot about the dog and left in another vehicle on the next case. He then realized he'd left the dog but it was too late. I cannot imagine what the owner is going through, he will obviously never forgive himself. It is a horrific death for a dog.
Don't take your dog, leave it at home. Please spread this message on. It is unbelievable how many people do not know.