Take the Ontario SPCA’s No Hot Pets Pledge!

Summer is a time for enjoying the warm weather and sunshine, but it’s crucial to remember that these conditions can be dangerous for our beloved animal companions. High temperatures can quickly turn deadly for pets left in hot vehicles, even for a short period. The Ontario SPCA and Humane Society is once again launching its annual No Hot Pets campaign, urging everyone to become advocates for animal safety during the summer months.

This vital campaign aims to raise awareness about the dangers of leaving pets in hot cars and other potentially hazardous situations during the summer. By understanding the risks and taking proactive steps, we can ensure that our furry friends enjoy a safe and comfortable summer season. The core message is simple: never leave your pet unattended in a vehicle on a warm day.

Taking the No Hot Pets Pledge

The first step in becoming a No Hot Pets advocate is to take the pledge at nohotpets.ca. This simple act demonstrates your commitment to protecting animals from the dangers of overheating. By signing the pledge, you’re joining a community dedicated to ensuring the safety and well-being of pets during the summer.

But it’s not just about signing your name. Taking the pledge signals a commitment to actively spreading awareness and taking action to prevent harm. Plus, when you take the pledge, you’ll be entered for a chance to win a cool YETI summer prize pack, making it even more rewarding to participate!

Getting Involved: Spreading the Word and Taking Action

Beyond taking the pledge, there are several easy and impactful ways to get involved in the No Hot Pets campaign and keep tails wagging all summer long.

Sharing the Message on Social Media:

One of the most effective ways to raise awareness is through social media. The Ontario SPCA and Humane Society has created a digital toolkit filled with fun, ready-to-go graphics and informative tips that you can easily share on your social media platforms. Use the hashtag #NoHotPets to amplify the message and connect with other animal lovers who are working to protect pets during the summer.

Engaging with Local Businesses:

Reach out to local businesses in your community and encourage them to support the No Hot Pets campaign. They can display posters in their storefronts to raise awareness among their customers. The Ontario SPCA and Humane Society offers free posters that businesses can request to display prominently. By partnering with local businesses, we can reach a wider audience and create a more pet-friendly community.

Advocating for Local Bylaws:

Consider contacting your town or city council to advocate for bylaws that specifically protect animals from being left in hot vehicles. Strong local regulations can help prevent these situations and provide a legal framework for intervention when animals are at risk.

The Core Danger: Why You Should Never Leave Your Pet in a Hot Car

Leaving a pet in a hot car, even for a few minutes, can have devastating consequences. Cars can heat up rapidly, even on moderately warm days. The temperature inside a vehicle can quickly climb to dangerous levels, creating a life-threatening situation for animals.

Think of it this way: on a 26°C (79°F) day, the temperature inside a parked car can reach a scorching 32°C (90°F) within just 10 minutes. Within a half hour, it can soar to a deadly 43°C (109°F). Animals don’t sweat like humans do, making them much more susceptible to overheating.

Heatstroke, a serious and potentially fatal condition, can develop rapidly in these conditions. Symptoms of heatstroke in pets include:

• Excessive panting or difficulty breathing
• Increased heart rate
• Drooling
• Weakness or collapse
• Vomiting or diarrhea
• Seizures

If you suspect your pet is suffering from heatstroke, it’s crucial to seek immediate veterinary care. While waiting for help, try to cool your pet down by moving them to a shaded area, applying cool (not cold) water to their body, and offering them small amounts of water to drink.

What Should You Do if You See a Pet in a Hot Car?

Witnessing a pet trapped in a hot car can be distressing. It’s essential to act quickly and responsibly to ensure the animal’s safety. Here’s a step-by-step guide on what to do if you encounter this situation:

1. Assess the Situation: First, determine if the animal appears to be in distress. Look for signs of heatstroke, such as excessive panting, drooling, weakness, or collapse. If the animal is clearly in immediate danger, proceed to the next steps.
2. Note the Car’s Details: Write down the car’s make, model, and license plate number. This information will be helpful if you need to involve law enforcement or animal control.
3. Locate the Owner: Check nearby stores, businesses, or events to see if you can find the owner of the vehicle. Ask employees to make an announcement over the intercom system, providing a description of the car and its location.
4. Contact Authorities: If you cannot locate the owner, immediately contact Provincial Animal Welfare Services at 1-833-9ANIMAL or contact your local police. If it’s an emergency and the animal is in immediate danger, call 911.
5. Wait for Help: Stay with the vehicle until authorities arrive. This will ensure that someone is present to assist the animal as soon as possible.
6. Breaking into the Vehicle (Last Resort): Depending on your jurisdiction, you may be able to legally break into the vehicle to rescue the animal if you believe it is in imminent danger and authorities are not responding quickly enough. However, it is crucial to understand the laws in your area and to only take this action as a last resort, after attempting to contact authorities. Document the situation with photos or videos if possible.

Important Considerations:

• Don’t hesitate to call for help. Time is of the essence in these situations.
• Be prepared to provide detailed information to authorities about the car, its location, and the animal’s condition.
• Prioritize the animal’s safety. Act quickly and responsibly to ensure that the animal receives the help it needs.

The No Hot Pets campaign is a crucial reminder that we all have a role to play in protecting animals during the summer months. By taking the pledge, spreading awareness, and taking action when we see a pet in distress, we can help ensure that all furry friends enjoy a safe and happy summer. Remember, a few simple precautions can save a life. So, let’s all commit to keeping our pets cool and safe this summer! Visit nohotpets.ca today to learn more and get involved.

The Ontario SPCA does not receive annual government funding and relies on donations to provide programs and services to help animals in need. To learn more, or to donate, visit ontariospca.ca. Charitable Business # 88969-1044-RR0002.