Public warned of dangers of leaving dogs in cars

WELLINGTON: The SPCA has reported an increase in dogs suffering in hot cars, as temperatures rise.

The organisation said there had been an early spike in cases, as the mercury hit 28degC in some places already this month.

Chief executive Andrea Midgen said if people were not taking their dog somewhere specific, they should leave it at home.

It could take just 10 minutes for the inside of a car to reach 40degC on an otherwise cool day, and dogs could quickly suffer from heatstroke, irreparable brain damage, and even death.

Owners can face a $300 fine for leaving a dog in a hot car. — RNZ