ARAG experts on responsibility, animal protection and legal consequences
Dusseldorf. On warm summer days, a few minutes are often enough for a parked car to turn into a dangerous heat trap. Although many people are now aware of the danger, dogs are often left in vehicles, be it for a quick purchase or a short appointment. What seems harmless can be life-threatening for the animals. The ARAG experts explain what obligations dog owners have, when there are legal consequences and what passersby can do if a dog gets into distress in an overheated car.
How quickly does a car heat up?
Many vehicle owners underestimate how quickly interior temperatures rise. The ARAG experts warn: Even at moderate outside temperatures of 25 to 28 degrees Celsius, the interior of a vehicle can heat up to 40 to 50 degrees within minutes. This is particularly dangerous for dogs because they regulate their body temperature primarily by panting. Unlike humans, they can only sweat to a very limited extent through their skin.
If the animal's body temperature rises too much, there is a risk of circulatory problems, shortness of breath, organ failure and, in the worst case, death. Open windows or a parking space in the shade do not offer reliable safety, as conditions can change within a short period of time.
What does the animal protection law say?
Anyone who leaves a dog in the car must ensure that there is no risk to the animal's health. According to the Animal Welfare Act, no one may cause pain, suffering or harm to an animal without a reasonable reason. If a dog is left in the vehicle despite high temperatures and is thereby endangered, this can be viewed as a violation of animal welfare regulations.
The ARAG experts point out that, depending on the severity of the case, there may be a risk of fines. If an animal is injured or even dies due to the heat, the authorities can assess the incident particularly strictly. In serious cases, there may even be suspicion of a crime under the Animal Welfare Act.
When are authorities allowed to intervene?
If a dog is discovered in an overheated vehicle, the police, public order office or fire department can intervene. If there is a risk that the animal will suffer health problems, the emergency services may take measures to save the dog. This also includes opening the vehicle forcibly. The costs of such an operation may, under certain circumstances, be charged to the animal owner (Nuremberg Higher Regional Court, Ref.: 4 U 1604/19). In addition to fines or penalties, there may also be other animal welfare measures. Depending on the individual case, these range from requirements for keeping animals to temporary or permanent prohibitions on keeping animals.
Are passers-by allowed to break the window?
The question that arises particularly frequently is whether private individuals are allowed to break a car window to save a dog. Basically, this initially involves damage to someone else's property. However, in an acute emergency situation, the so-called justifying emergency can take effect. The prerequisite is that there is actually an immediate danger to the animal and that no milder means are available. The ARAG experts therefore recommend first checking whether the owner can be found. At the same time, the police or fire department should be notified. If the dog is already showing clear signs of overheating, such as heavy panting, lethargy, balance problems or consciousness problems, quick action may be necessary. Whether breaking a window was justified in an individual case always depends on the specific circumstances. Therefore, witnesses should take photos if possible and document the animal's condition.
How do helpers react correctly?
Anyone who discovers a dog in a hot vehicle should first remain calm and assess the situation. It is important to record the location of the vehicle and quickly inform the police or fire department. If the owner allows himself to be paged in a shop or facility, this option should also be used. If the animal is already in a critical condition, every minute counts. In such cases, emergency services can assess the situation and take the necessary measures. After a rescue, an overheated dog should be examined by a veterinarian as quickly as possible.
What is dog mode and are there other technical aids?
Modern electric vehicles sometimes offer a so-called dog or pet mode. The air conditioning continues to run even when the vehicle is parked and keeps the set temperature constant. Some systems also use a display in the vehicle to inform passers-by that the dog is in an air-conditioned car. However, the ARAG experts point out that technical aids do not replace the owner's responsibility. Even when dog mode is activated, temperature differences can occur within the vehicle, for example in a dog crate or in direct sunlight. In addition, technical defects or operating errors can never be completely ruled out.
For car journeys on hot days, special cooling mats in dog crates or in the back seat can provide additional comfort. The mats usually contain a cooling gel or special materials that absorb heat and keep the lying surface at a pleasant temperature for a certain period of time. However, the ARAG experts emphasize that cooling mats are only a supporting measure. They can relieve the animal's body temperature, but do not replace sufficient fresh air or functioning air conditioning. They do not provide effective protection against heat stroke in an overheated vehicle. Therefore, cooling mats should only be used as a supplement to other protective measures.
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