As temperatures rise in British Columbia, so does the risk of heatstroke and death for pets left in parked vehicles. Every year, the BC SPCA receives over 1,000 calls to their Animal Helpline about dogs in distress inside hot cars. Tragically, many animals die or suffer irreparable harm because their guardians didn’t realize just how dangerous even a short time in a vehicle can be.
Never leave your pet in a parked car—even for a few minutes. Even on a mild 21°C day, the inside of a car can reach 32°C in just 10 minutes. In an hour, that same car can hit 43°C or higher. Cracking the window doesn’t slow this process, and leaving the air conditioning on is no guarantee of safety if the system fails.
Why Pets Overheat So Quickly
Dogs and cats don’t cool themselves the same way people do. While humans sweat through their entire body, pets can only sweat through their footpads and/or regulate body temperature through panting. That makes them especially vulnerable to overheating. Once a pet’s body temperature rises to dangerous levels, it can lead to organ failure, seizures, coma, or death. (find out more about heat stroke and dehydration in our blog here)
What to Do If You See a Dog in a Hot Car
If you encounter a pet in a parked vehicle and are concerned about their safety, follow these steps:
- Note the license plate, colour, make, and model of the vehicle.
- Alert nearby businesses and ask them to page the vehicle’s owner immediately.
- Monitor the pet—if they’re not yet in distress, remain near the vehicle to keep watch until the owner returns.
- If the pet is showing signs of heatstroke or appears in distress, call your local animal control agency, the police, RCMP, or the BC SPCA Animal Helpline at 1-855-622-7722.
For more detailed instructions, visit the BC SPCA’s page on pets in hot cars.
⚠️ Do not break the window. Only RCMP, local police, or BC SPCA Special Constables are legally authorized to enter a vehicle to rescue an animal. Bystanders who attempt to break a window could risk personal injury or legal consequences—and may also inadvertently harm the pet.
Warning Signs of Heatstroke in Dogs and Cats
Watch for the following symptoms of heatstroke, especially if your pet has been in a hot environment:
- Exaggerated panting (or the sudden absence of panting)
- Rapid or erratic heartbeat
- Drooling or salivating
- Anxious or vacant expression
- Muscle tremors, weakness, or collapse
- Vomiting or seizures
While cats may show similar signs, they are often more subtle, so careful observation is crucial.
First Aid: What to Do if Your Pet Overheats
If your dog or cat shows signs of heatstroke:
- Move them to a cool, shaded area.
- Wet them down with cool (not cold) water.
- Do not apply ice, as this may constrict blood vessels and prevent proper cooling.
- Use a fan to help with evaporative cooling.
- Offer small sips of cool water or allow them to lick an ice cube.
- Get to a veterinarian immediately.
To learn more about how to handle heatstroke or dehydration in pets, visit our summer hazards blog.
Emergency Care When You Need It
If you believe your pet is suffering from heatstroke or heat-related distress, please come directly to Boundary Bay Veterinary Specialty Hospital in Surrey—no appointment is required.
We are VECCS Level 1 certified, equipped with an ICU, and staffed by specialists and emergency teams capable of managing even the most critical, life-threatening emergencies.
If you’re on your way, and time permits, please call us at (604) 514-8383 so our team can prepare for your arrival.
How You Can Help Prevent Tragedy
Carry a Car Kit
Keep a small emergency kit in your car in case you find a pet in distress. Include:
- Bottled water
- A collapsible bowl
- A towel (can be soaked in water)
- A small battery-powered fan
If the window is partially open and you’re waiting for help, try to hydrate the animal safely without putting yourself at risk.
Spread the Word
Help raise awareness by:
- Posting BC SPCA campaign materials
- Sharing information on social media
- Putting a decal or magnet on your vehicle
The more people understand how dangerous it is to leave pets in cars, the fewer animals will suffer.
Please help us protect pets this summer. A few minutes can mean the difference between life and death. When in doubt, don’t take the risk—leave your pet at home where they’re safe, cool, and comfortable.