Fine owners leaving dogs in cars Brits say as 16% admit dangerous habit

A new poll has found that one in six dog owners have left their pet in a car in warm temperatures for an extended period of time – raising serious heatstroke dangers – as more than half of Brits say owners should be fined

One in six dog owners have left their pet in a vehicle at a temperature that could endanger their lives. Based on research, of the 70% of Brits who do, or have owned a dog, 16% have left their four-legged companion in a car with temperatures ranging from 13 to 24 degrees and above – for a prolonged period of time.

The dangers of doing so can be deadly, with an outdoor temperature of 21 degrees said to reach 32 inside a car in as little as 10 minutes.

The poll of 2,000 adults also revealed of all respondents, 62% have spotted a dog inside a vehicle on a warm or hot day. After witnessing this, 31% have actively hunted down the owners and a further 16% have remained nearby until they returned.

The research was commissioned by Confused.com. Matt Crole-Rees, motoring expert from the brand, said: “Dogs are a big part of life for many of us, as many become more like family than a pet.

“So, it’s important to make sure that your dogs are as safe as possible when travelling in the car, especially in warmer weather as we approach summer.

“Keeping your dogs as cool as possible on a hot day is necessary. When driving, keeping the aircon on or a window open will help to cool them down.

“Yet, dogs should always be suitably restrained to prevent distracting the driver or causing an injury.

“As well as this, you should always make sure your dog is hydrated and comfortable. Leaving your dog alone in the car should be avoided.”

Many respondents voiced bewilderment over why owners would jeopardise their pet’s life in such conditions. More than half (52%) believe it should be illegal to leave a dog in a car on a hot day and think owners should be fined if they do so.

According to the OnePoll.com data, 35% think the process of helping a dog in a hot car is unclear and 32% are unsure if you should call the police or the RSPCA to report it.

Matt added: “A concerning number of people have seen dogs left alone in a car on a hot day. Although it’s reassuring that many would take action, the risk should be avoided in the first place.

“If you ever find yourself in a situation where you need to help a dog in danger, call the police and do not attempt to break into the car as this counts as criminal damage and could worsen the situation for you.”

WHAT TO DO IF YOU SEE A DOG IN DANGER:

1. Check for a pay and display ticket to work out how long the dog has been in the vehicle.
2. Take a note of the car’s make and registration, and if you are in a public place, alert nearby shops, cafés or restaurants to make an announcement.
3. If the dog shows signs of heatstroke, call 999 straight away – do not attempt to break into the car as this counts as criminal damage and could worsen the situation for you.
4. Make sure there is someone with the dog at all times to monitor for any changes.