Kentish Express Ashford & District
Hot car can kill a dog in 15 minutes, pet owners warned
tcollins@thekmgroup.co.uk Police are calling on dog owners not to leave their dogs inside stiflingly hot cars, following a spate of calls from worried shoppers.
PC Emma Todd and PCSO Jo Laughton – who patrol Ashford town centre – say they have received numerous daily calls concerning the welfare of dogs during the recent hot spellincluding a number of serious incidents.
Kent Police is also warning dog owners that they could be prosecuted if they leave their pets in hot vehicles.
The message comes after a dog was reported to be in a distressed state in a car parked in the Park Mall multi-storey car park in Ashford, at around 2pm last Tuesday.
The window of the vehicle had been left partially open by the owners, a couple from New Romney, but it was not enough to cool the soaring temperatures of around 31degrees C inside.
PC Todd said: “Every day since the hot weather we’ve received a number of calls from concerned members of the public.
“We had the RSPCA out to deal with the incident at Park Mall and they told us that it can take as little as 15 minutes for a dog to die in a hot car.
“I don’t think people realise it is as serious as it is, it’s not enough to leave a window slightly open, it could have been a disaster.
What do you think? Write to Kentish Express, 34-36 North Street, Ashford, TN24 8JR or email kentishexpress@thekmgroup.co.uk
“Ideally you should leave your dog at home, get them walked early and then leave them in the shade. Most people don’t need to be bringing a dog shopping.
“If you do have to take your dog with you, do not leave them unattended, give them plenty of water, and make sure they are kept in the shade.
“If you see a dog in trouble, please call the police on 101, we will respond to every call.”
The dog – a miniature schnauzer – was rescued with the assistance of the police and fire services, as well as the RSPCA.
The animal was taken to a vet where it recovered overnight, after it had suffered a raised temperature and heart rate.
The owner’s returned to the car one hour later. They were warned about the dangers of leaving their dog in a hot car and offered advice. No further action was taken.
Another dog was also reported to police, after being left tied up in scorching heat outside the Post Office in Tufton Street.
For more information on the danger of hot cars, visit http:// bit.ly/jH3Uw9