HPD to Pet Owners: Be Cool and Don’t Leave Your Buddy in a Hot Vehicle

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With warm weather approaching, the Hermiston Police Department is reminding pet owners of the dangers of leaving your pet in a hot car. (Photo: Pixabay)

Spring is here with warmer weather on the horizon and the Hermiston Police Department has your pooch in mind.

Cpt. Travis Eynon is reminding all dog owners of the dangers of leaving your four-legged friend in a hot car.

“With warm weather coming soon, I want to take this opportunity ahead of time to remind everyone about the dangers of leaving dogs or other pets in a warm car,” he said. Eynon said it’s pretty simple to determine if your vehicle is too hot to leave your pet inside while you run into the store.

“If it’s too warm to sit in your car or drive around with the windows rolled up, it is definitely too hot to leave your dog in the car,” he said. “Dogs do not have the ability to sweat like humans so their cooling system is not nearly as efficient as ours. They rely upon us to take care of them for feeding, shelter, medical care, etc. It is our responsibility to make sure we are not putting them in danger.”

During the warm days, it may be best to leave your pets at home, said Eynon, but if you do take them out with you, do not leave them in the car while you run into a store or other places.

“They will not last long in the heat,” he said. “Not only is it a tragedy to accidentally injure or kill your pet, it’s also unlawful.”