Be under no illusion: even with the windows slightly open, a car can quickly become an oven. A scientific study published in the journal Pediatrics* shows that the interior of a vehicle exposed to the sun gained nearly 1.8°C every 5 minutes. Under the conditions studied, the cabin temperature could reach 47°C, even if the mercury was lower outside. During heatwaves, you can easily approach 60°C in just 15 minutes!
Another important element to remember? The researchers did not observe a significant difference in the rate of warming when the windows were opened a few centimeters. Concretely? This “precaution” is not enough to protect an animal.
The danger is all the more significant as Man's best friend dissipates heat less well than us. Panting, excessive salivation, disorientation, weakness… These are all signs that may indicate heat stroke, which constitutes a veterinary emergency.
What are the penalties incurred if you lock your dog in a car?
According to the law, all owners must ensure the well-being of their pet and place it in conditions compatible with its biological needs. Therefore, you should never leave a dog locked in a car, even if it is parked in the shade.
Failure to comply with animal protection rules can result in heavy penalties, such as a fine of up to €750. In the most serious cases, a prison sentence and a fine of up to €30,000 hang in the face of the offender.
Woopets' advice: What to do if you find a dog alone in a car?
Have you noticed a dog locked in a vehicle? First, try to find its owner, but do not waste time if the animal seems in distress. Then call the police or gendarmerie to receive instructions and trigger an intervention supervised by the police.
When the dog's life appears threatened (very heavy panting, loss of consciousness, dark-colored tongue, strong agitation, etc.) and help cannot intervene in time, you can:
- Gather 2 or 3 witnesses at the scene.
- Take photos and videos of the situation.
- Note the vehicle's license plate, date and time.
- Break the window to save the dog, put him in a cool place and give him something to drink.
However, keep in mind that breaking glass can constitute an offense. A person who breaks a vehicle window without being able to demonstrate the existence of a real and imminent danger may be exposed to legal consequences and a claim for compensation from the car owner…
* “Heat stress from enclosed vehicles: moderate ambient temperatures cause significant temperature rise in enclosed vehicles”, Catherine McLaren, Jan Null, James Quinn, Pediatrics, July 2005.