Summer is a great time for road trips and vacations, and for many families in B.C., taking the family pet along goes without saying. However, with dogs and cats, the summer heat can become dangerous – especially when left in a vehicle. So before heading out on the road with Fido in the backseat, take some time to properly prepare and ensure your furry friends have fun, and safe, vacation – they’ve earned it!
First things first, leaving your pet alone in a parked car in the summer months, even for a short time, can be deadly. On a hot day, temperatures inside a parked car can rise rapidly, even with the windows cracked open. Dogs and cats aren’t built to release heat by sweating as humans do, so their internal body temperature rises quickly, leading to heatstroke and dehydration. If you can’t take your pet with you inside, it’s probably best to leave them at home or tied up somewhere outside, in the shade, with easy access to water.
Just like humans, cats and dogs frequently need to stretch, hydrate and use the bathroom. When outside the vehicle, always keep your pet on a leash and ensure they're wearing a collar with an identification tag. This helps prevent them from running away in unfamiliar environments like rest stops, busy service stations and parks near areas with heavy vehicle traffic. Ensure their food is stored properly and always carry extra water to keep them hydrated and offer them water frequently.
A well-prepared travel kit can make a huge difference to your pet's comfort. Include items such as food, water, bowls, a leash, poop-scoop bags, medications and a few favourite toys. Animals can get bored and anxious, and giving them something to do or a familiar toy can ease their anxiety and keep them calm and comfy.
Taking care of your own animal is one thing, but we’ve all experienced that moment where we see an animal in distress in someone else’s vehicle. And though your first instinct might be to attempt to “rescue” the animal, it’s crucial to act responsibly. Ask managers of nearby businesses to page the owner to return to their vehicle immediately. If no owner is found, or if the animal is suffering symptoms of heatstroke, during daytime, 9 a.m. to 5 p.m., call your local SPCA and in an emergency, call 9-1-1 for police or RCMP attendance.
Heatstroke is the biggest offender, so make sure you’re aware of the signs and symptoms, which include exaggerated panting, a rapid or erratic pulse, drooling, anxious expressions, weakness, muscle tremors, lack of coordination, convulsions, vomiting, and in the worst-case scenario, collapse. If your pet exhibits any of these signs, take immediate action by moving them to a cool, shady area and wetting them with cool (not ice-cold) water
Whether you're heading out for a weekend camping adventure or a long road trip, these tips can help ensure a safe and enjoyable summer vacation for both you and your pets. Prioritize their safety and comfort and be prepared for the unique challenges that come with travelling in the summer heat – your furry friend will thank you.
Blair Qualey is President and CEO of the New Car Dealers Association of BC. You can email him at bqualey@newcardealers.ca.
