By Dominic Abassi

Not getting the message: people still leaving dogs in hot cars

Jun 22, 2018 | 3:34 PM

NANAIMO — While it might seem hard to believe given the barrage of news coverage and constant social media shaming, people are still leaving their vulnerable dogs in baking hot cars.

Nanaimo Animal Control Services reported their officers responded to 47 calls for dogs left in vehicles on hot days this year, with 14 calls coming between June 16 and 21 alone.

“Unfortunately, just like every other summer, we deal with a lot of complaints…This year the hot weather started about a week ago and even though it’s been very hot, we’re still finding we’re getting a lot of calls and finding dogs left in cars and it’s just too hot for that,” pound and adoption coordinator Carley Colclough told NanaimoNewsNOW.

While the number of calls aren’t dramatically higher than previous years, the fact they’re remaining consistent is almost a failure in itself considering the amount of conversation around the issue. Several Nanaimo Facebook groups were littered with pictures of dogs in vehicles as temperatures topped 30 C last weekend.

“There’s definitely frustration and the officers find when they’re attending the scene there’s usually a bit of an audience because people are definitely frustrated by it.”

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Colclough said even if the weather doesn’t seem that hot to a person, a dog inside a car can go into distress very quickly and the results can be tragic.

She said dog owners simply need to plan ahead and leave their pet at home if they know they’re going somewhere where you can’t bring a dog inside. If it’s unavoidable, Colclough said people should leave a bowl of water with ice, park in the shade and leave a note informing people what time you left, when you’re coming back and a phone number.

“There’s a certain temperature in the summer where even a few minutes can be dangerous.”

She said if someone spots a dog in a car they should watch for signs of distress, noting if the animal is moving and barking it’s not in imminent danger. “If the dog has become lethargic, if there’s any vomit in the vehicle, if it’s obviously seeking shade…Those are indicators the dog might be beginning to suffer heat stress.”

To report an issue call Animal Services at 250-616-0233 Monday to Saturday during business hours. Outside of those times, call RCMP. A $500 fine can be given out if a dog is found in distress.

dom@nanaimonewsnow.com

On Twitter: @domabassi