Over 500 Cases of Pets Left in Vehicles Reported to the Ontario SPCA

NEWMARKET, ONTARIO--(Marketwired - July 29, 2016) - With hot weather forecasted this long weekend, the Ontario SPCA wants to remind the public about the dangers of leaving pets unattended in vehicles after receiving over 500 calls since April about animals left in sweltering cars.

"While our #NoHotPets campaign is generating awareness about the issue, not everyone seems to be getting the message," says Connie Mallory, Chief Inspector, Ontario SPCA. "It's never okay to leave your pet unattended in a vehicle. Even if you're just planning on running into a store quickly, anything could delay your return and the results could prove deadly for your pet."

Parked cars can quickly reach deadly temperatures, even on relatively mild days with a vehicle parked in the shade and the windows open. A dog's normal body temperature is about 39°C. A body temperature of 41°C can be withstood only for a very short time before irreparable brain damage or even death can occur.

"If you can't take your pet with you when you leave your car, leave them at home where they are safe," Mallory reminds pet owners. "Dogs have a limited ability to sweat, so even a short time in a hot environment can be life-threatening."

If you see an animal left unattended in a vehicle, call 310-SPCA immediately. Owners who leave pets unattended in vehicles may face charges under the Ontario SPCA Act or the Criminal Code of Canada.

Take the #NoHoPets pledge at nohotpets.ca to receive a window decal that will show your commitment to animal safety and serve as a reminder about the dangers of leaving pets in hot vehicles. To take the pledge, visit nohotpets.ca.

Ontario SPCA and Humane Society:

Protecting animals since 1873, Ontario SPCA is Ontario's Animal Welfare organization. A registered charity comprised of over 50 Communities.

Since 1919, when Ontario's first Animal Welfare legislation was proclaimed, the Ontario SPCA, with the help of its Communities, has been entrusted to maintain and enforce Animal Welfare legislation. The Act provides Ontario SPCA Agents and Inspectors with police powers to do so.

Ontario SPCA provides leadership in animal welfare innovations including introducing high-volume spay/neuter services to Ontario and opening the Provincial Education and Animal Centre.

OntarioSPCA.ca

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