Warning after Oxfordshire dog left in ‘dangerously’ hot car

Thames Valley Police has warned dog owners to “never” leave their pet in a hot vehicle, even if for a short time.

The force released the advice today (Tuesday, May 26) after a dog was removed from a car because of the “dangerously high temperature”.

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It was kept in an air-conditioned police vehicle until the owner returned.

A spokesperson for the South Oxon and Vale of White Horse team said: “We are urging the public to never leave dogs in hot cars—even for a short time.

“Recently, PC Hackett attended a report of a dog left in a vehicle.

“Despite the windows being slightly open and a bowl of water inside, the temperature was still dangerously high.

“The dog had to be removed and kept safe in an air-conditioned police vehicle until the owner returned, where advice was given.

“Cars heat up rapidly, even on mild days. Dogs cannot regulate their body temperature effectively and can quickly suffer or die.

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“Leaving a dog in a hot car may constitute an offence under the Animal Welfare Act 2006.

“If you see a dog in distress call 999 in an emergency otherwise report via 101.

“Remember: If you wouldn’t sit in the car, don’t leave your dog in it.”