Summer tips

Every day over summer, the SPCA Auckland responds to about a dozen calls regarding dogs locked in cars that are quickly overheating.

Usually, the pet can be saved by quick-thinking inspectors. But in a couple of cases each year, a dog will die from heatstroke.

“Of course people don’t do it on purpose, but you need to realise your dog will suffer even within 10 minutes on a hot day,” said SPCA Auckland senior inspector Kevin Plowright.

“Sometimes we have to break into the car to save the dog because it is so distressed. And unfortunately it’s the ones we don’t hear about, in the less populated areas, that we get there too late.”

Every time the SPCA is called out, even if they manage to resolve the situation without going to the carpark, the owner will get a letter about the dangers of their actions. The society can run number plates to make contact.

Already this summer, dogs have suffered. Over the weekend of December 19 and 20, the Wellington SPCA responded to two calls about dogs in hot cars.

One of the pets was left in the car for 40 minutes. Although two windows were down, there was no water for the dog to drink and it was found overheated and very distressed.

“The dog was very lucky,” said Wellington SPCA senior inspector Ben Lakomy.

“Any longer and it could How hot does your car get on a 30C day?

39C in 10 minutes, even in the shade.

49C in 30 minutes. Summer tips for your pet: Cool them off: Baths/ pools/ sprinklers. Freeze food and treats. Ice blocks to chew on. Apply sunscreen:

Check where their fur is thinnest for sunburn. Always have fresh water available: Change water daily. Check water levels throughout the day.

Leave water in shade. Exercise morning/night:

Touch the concrete: if it’s too hot to hold the back of a hand to for five seconds, it’s too hot for dogs.

Avoid exercise 11am2pm. Carry water whenever exercising your pet. Don’t leave in hot cars:

Always take your pet with you when you leave the car or leave them at home.

Always let your pet have access to a cool, shaded spot. Source: SPCA Wellington If you see a dog in distress locked in a hot car, call the SPCA or phone 111.

The SPCA Auckland is closed until tomorrow. have died. It is very frustrating when this happens, owners just don’t think. A mistake like this could cost them their pet’s life.”

On a 30C day, the tempera-