Residents Reminded Not to Leave Pets in Parked Cars

It's summer, and leaving your pet in a parked car could have dire consequences.

The Ontario Provincial Police has issued a statement reminding residents that "just a minute" in a hot vehicle can be deadly for pets.

Residents should keep in mind not to leave their pets unattended in parked cars, as they can reach deadly temperatures quickly even on relatively mild days with the vehicle parked in the shade and the windows slightly open.

Police say dogs have a limited ability to sweat, even for a short time in a hot environment.

"Just a minute" in a hot car can result in serious medical distress or even death of your pet.

Pet owners should keep in mind that it can also result in a charge being laid under the Ontario SPCA Act or the Criminal Code of Canada.

If you witness a dog left in a vehicle that appears to be in distress, you are asked to contact the Ontario Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals (SPCA) at 310-SPCA (7722) or the OPP at 1-888-310-1122. Continue to monitor the situation and await arrival of officers.