Edmonton received 37 complaints of animals left in hot vehicles over seven weeks
The city is warning pet owners never to leave animals in parked cars during hot weather, as temperatures inside vehicles can reach dangerous levels in minutes.
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The City of Edmonton received 37 complaints of animals left in hot vehicles between May and June, compared to 33 such complaints during the same period last year.
The city is urging residents never to leave pets unattended in parked vehicles during hot weather, especially dogs, which are highly susceptible to heat-related illness. Even on mild days, temperatures inside a vehicle can quickly rise to dangerous levels. When it's 15 degrees Celsius outside, the temperature inside a car can reach 28 C in less than 15 minutes, posing risks of heat exhaustion, heatstroke, and death.
"You may think you'll be gone for just a short time, but that's all it takes for a situation to turn tragic," said JongHwan Rhee, superintendent with Animal Care and Park Rangers. "A few simple precautions can help keep your pet safe and healthy."
Leaving windows cracked or parking in the shade does not provide reliable protection from rising temperatures, the city cautioned. Anyone who sees an animal in immediate distress in a locked vehicle can call 911. If the animal is not in immediate danger, Edmontonians are asked to call 311.
The facts
How quickly can a parked car heat up?
When it's 15 degrees Celsius outside, the temperature inside a parked car can reach 28 degrees Celsius in less than 15 minutes.
What should you do if you see an animal in distress in a locked vehicle?
If an animal is in immediate distress in a locked vehicle, call 911. If the animal is not in immediate danger, call 311.
