Why is a Hot Car So Dangerous?
Even on a seemingly mild day, the temperature inside a parked car can skyrocket to dangerous levels in just minutes. Dogs are particularly vulnerable to heat because they can’t sweat like humans; they rely on panting to cool down, which is far less effective in a confined, hot space.
Parking in the shade and leaving the windows cracked is not effective enough to cool the inside of a car. Even if the temperature outside is 22°C, the inside of a car can reach 47°C.
On a day that is 30°C or hotter, the inside of the car can reach fatal temperatures in under ten minutes.
Here’s what can happen if a dog is left in a hot car:
Heatstroke: Dogs can suffer from heatstroke in as little as 10 minutes. Symptoms include excessive panting, drooling, weakness, and even collapse. Heatstroke can lead to organ failure and death if not treated immediately.
Dehydration: High temperatures can quickly dehydrate a dog, causing a drop in blood volume and potentially leading to shock.
Brain Damage: Even if a dog doesn’t die from heatstroke, the high temperatures can cause irreversible brain damage. The psychological stress and physical discomfort of being trapped in a hot car are significant. Dogs may panic, worsening their physical state.
What to Do If You See a Dog in a Hot Car
If you do witness an animal locked in a car on a hot day, the ISPCA recommends contacting your local Garda station or our National Animal Cruelty Helpine on 0818 515 515. Under the Animal Health and Welfare Act (AHWA) 2013, Authorised Officers can use reasonable force to enter a vehicle and rescue a distressed animal if necessary. Members of Garda Síochána or ISPCA Animal Welfare Inspectors are considered “Authorised Officers.” Members of the public forcing entry into somebody else’s property could leave themselves open to legal action. In an emergency, it is best to contact the Gardaí immediately.
