Rise in calls to SSPCA about dogs in hot cars
SCOTLAND’S animal welfare charity has noted a huge increase in calls about dogs being left in hot cars during the spell of sweltering weather.
The Scottish SPCA received 571 reports raising concerns about pets in vehicles between January and the end of June, but by Thursday of this week this had risen to 635.
In just over two weeks, between June 18 and July 4, the charity took 210 calls concerned about overheating dogs.
Animal welfare experts warned that dogs can die if left in hot cars.
Scottish SPCA chief superintendent Mike Flynn said: ‘We’re very concerned at the number of reports we’re receiving about dogs being left inside cars during the hot weather.
‘Owners need to understand that it’s completely unacceptable to leave a dog in a vehicle in these searing temperatures, even for a short period of time with the windows down. In this kind of heat, just don’t risk it.
‘Our advice is that owners should leave their dogs at home if they are going to be left in the car for any length of time at all.
‘When left at home, owners should ensure their dogs have access to fresh water at all times and that there is adequate ventilation in the room. If dogs are being kept outdoors, they must have an area of shelter where they can escape the heat of the sun.’
Last month, police officers in northeast Fife had to smash a window to rescue a dog from a ‘boiling’ hot car, and said they would take action against the pet’s owner.
Scottish SPCA deputy superintendent Peter Fleming offered general advice for pet owners during a heatwave. He said: ‘In this weather we would advise the public to ensure their pets stay hydrated, cool and a fresh supply of water should always be available.
‘Sometimes just keeping a window open at home or putting on a fan to let the air circulate the room will help provide a cool temperature for them.
‘Please don’t forget about wild animals too, who will benefit from bowls of water left in the garden.’