Why a warm car is so dangerous
A mild, cloudy day might not feel dangerous, but inside a parked car it can be a very different story. On a 21°C day, the temperature can climb to around 32°C in less than 10 minutes and reach 38°C within 20 – even with the windows cracked. Yet new Rover research found that almost half (46%) of people believe parking in the shade makes it safe to leave a dog in a car, while 43% think leaving the windows open or leaving water inside the vehicle (36%) is enough to keep dogs safe.
Unfortunately, none of these precautions can prevent the temperature inside a car from rising. Because dogs can’t cool themselves as efficiently as we can, the heat can quickly become life-threatening. In fact, a dog’s body temperature can reach dangerous levels in as little as six minutes in a warm car.
Rover’s Canine Behaviour Expert, Adem Fehmi says: “It’s easy to see how well-intentioned owners can get caught out. Many people think they’ll only be gone for a few minutes, or that parking in the shade, cracking a window open or leaving water behind will keep their dog comfortable. Unfortunately, none of these measures can stop a parked car from heating up surprisingly quickly.
If you’re planning a day out with your dog during the summer, it’s worth thinking ahead. If you know you’ll need to stop somewhere your dog can’t come with you, it’s safest to leave them at home or arrange care before you travel. If they’re joining you on the journey, ensure you travel during the cooler parts of the day, make regular stops at cooler locations such as air-conditioned service stations so they can stretch their legs and have a drink, and whenever you leave the vehicle, always take your dog with you.”
| Time Elapsed | Temp in Vehicle |
| 10 min | 32°C |
| 20 min | 37°C |
| 30 min | 40°C |
| 60 mins | 45°C |
What to do if you see a dog in a hot car
New research from Rover revealed that 68% of dog owners living in the UK say they would be willing to smash a car window to save a dog trapped in a hot car, however, over a quarter 29% are unaware that doing so could potentially result in criminal damage charges.
Former police sergeant and wildlife officer Mike Pannett has shared his 5-step guide on what to do if you see a dog in a hot car:
- Step 1: If you see a dog showing signs of distress in a vehicle, the first thing to do is call the police. Remember the police can offer advice and guidance over the phone.
- Step 2: Are you able to locate the driver? E.g. if you are at an event or a supermarket, can a loudspeaker announcement be made?
- Step 3: Take the details of any witnesses. Take photographs or video footage of the dog and vehicle to gain evidence.
- Step 4: Fully assess the situation if you are considering breaking into the vehicle. Be prepared to defend your actions in court in the event of any legal action being taken against you. Consider, would the owner consent to you breaking in if they knew the circumstances?
- Step 5: Legally and ideally breaking into a vehicle should be carried out by the police. However, if the police are unable to attend you should inform them of your intended actions before breaking into the vehicle.
What should you do once the dog is safe?
Peter Newcombe, General Manager, at Cheltenham Animal Shelter says,
“With the UK’s summer temperatures rising, it’s important that, as responsible pet owners, we take steps to keep our dogs safe and cool during warmer weather. Different breeds, ages and underlying health conditions can all affect how well a dog copes with the heat, with some dogs at risk of developing heatstroke even on relatively mild summer days.
If you see a dog in a hot car and you are concerned for their welfare, call 999 if the dog is showing signs of heatstroke, as the police have the authority to take appropriate action in an emergency. Breaking a car window yourself could leave you liable for criminal damage charges. Once the dog is safe, move them to a cool, shaded area and begin to cool them immediately. Pour cool water over their body – focusing on the neck, stomach, and thighs, avoiding the head – and encourage airflow with a fan or breeze if possible. Do not cover them with towels, as this can trap heat. Then transport them to the nearest vet in a cool, well-ventilated vehicle as quickly as possible.”
Signs of heatstroke in dogs
- Excessive panting
- Drooling
- Lethargy
- Vomiting
- Collapsing
Dogs that become anxious or stressed during car journeys or in unfamiliar environments may be at greater risk of heat stress, so keep an extra close eye on them.
If you notice any signs of overheating, stop immediately, move your dog to a cool, shaded place, offer fresh water and seek veterinary advice as soon as possible.
How to keep a dog cool on a long car journey
Rover’s Canine Behaviour Expert, Adem Fehmi, shares his top tips for travelling safely with dogs in hot weather, warning that even a few minutes in a parked car can have devastating consequences:
- Never leave your dog in a parked car – not even for a few minutes
“A dog’s body temperature can reach dangerous levels in as little as six minutes in a warm car. Even if you’re only popping into a shop or service station, the temperature inside a parked vehicle can rise rapidly, becoming life-threatening in a matter of minutes. Parking in the shade, leaving the windows slightly open or leaving water behind won’t stop a car from heating up.” - Plan regular ‘Pup Stops’
Long journeys can be tiring, especially in warm weather. Aim to stop at least every two hours at a cool, shaded or air-conditioned location so your dog can stretch their legs, rehydrate and cool down before continuing your journey. If your dog is very young, older, has a medical condition or finds car travel stressful, you should aim to stop at much shorter intervals to ensure their comfort and safety. If you know you’ll need to stop somewhere your dog can’t come with you, it’s safest to leave them at home or arrange alternative care before you set off. - Beat the heat by travelling at cooler times
“Where possible, travel early in the morning or later in the evening when temperatures are lower. Avoid driving during the hottest part of the day to help reduce the risk of your dog overheating.”
- Keep your dog cool on the move
“Use air conditioning where possible and ensure good airflow throughout the vehicle. Always carry plenty of fresh drinking water, and consider using cooling mats or damp towels to help keep your dog comfortable on longer journeys.”
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