Why You Shouldn’t Leave Pets In the Car, Especially During the Summer in Omaha and Millard, NE

Your pet is a part of your family, so it’s natural to want to take them with you on outings. However, if your pet must wait in the car while doing your errands, it can be extremely dangerous for your pet. Cars, even in mild temperatures can become so hot inside that your pet can suffer a heat stroke and possibly even death.

car being left inside a car

Temperatures Inside a Car

On a shady, mild day with temperatures in the high 70’s, the inside of a shaded car can reach temperatures of 90 degrees and if the car is parked in the sun, within minutes the temperature in the car will reach 160 degrees. Even with the car running and the air conditioner on, the temperature inside of a vehicle can quickly rise to dangerous, life-threatening levels. If the outside temperature is 85 degrees, the temperature inside a car with the windows slightly opened, within 10 minutes the temperature will reach 102 and after the 30 minutes, it will get about 120 degrees.

Heatstroke, Organ Damage and/or Death

A dog’s temperature should not get over 104 degrees, if it does,  this can cause heatstroke, organ damage, and possibly even death. It is also important to note that high humidity can cause your pet’s temperature to rise quicker, which prevents them from being able to cool their body down through panting.  It is critical that you take your pet to the vet immediately if their temperature goes above 104 degrees and you are unable to cool them down.  Know the signs of heatstroke in pets, which include:

  • Heavy panting
  • Glazed eyes
  • Rapid heartbeat
  • Excessive thirst
  • Difficulty breathing
  • Fever
  • Dizziness
  • Profuse salivation
  • Deep red or purple tongue
  • Vomiting
  • Seizure
  • Unconsciousness

If your pet is suffering from heatstroke, move them to an air-conditioned or shaded area and apply cold towels or ice packs to their neck, chest, and head. Give them small amounts of water to drink and take them immediately to an emergency veterinarian in Millard and Omaha.

Contact Us Today

If your pet has been left in a vehicle and you suspect heatstroke, it is essential that you take them to Urgent Pet Care Omaha immediately.