Heat Kills: Leaving Pets in a Closed Vehicle Can Be Deadly

Leaving your pet in an enclosed vehicle for "just a minute" may be too long. The inside of cars and trucks heat up very quickly, even with windows partially open. When the temperature outside is 65 degrees, the interior of a vehicle can reach 102 degrees within 10 minutes, and 120 degrees within 30 minutes. Florida's year-round heat and humidity increase the danger.

Pets left inside closed vehicles can quickly develop heatstroke, and it's often lethal. Additionally, leaving pets inside a hot car can result in fines and/or criminal charges.

Symptoms of heatstroke in pets

• Excessive panting and drooling
• Weakness
• Disorientation
• Seizures

First aid

• Cool the pet's body temperature by submerging the pet in water or running a hose over the animal. NOTE: It is very important to cool the animal's head. Put the animal in an air-conditioned vehicle, building, or at least in the shade. DO NOT pour ice water on the animal since that could send it into shock.
• Call a veterinarian immediately
• Notify authorities

To report an animal in danger or heat distress, immediately call 911 or notify a law enforcement officer, and then call Hillsborough County  Code Enforcement's Animal Control at (813) 744-5660