As the number of dog owners continues to rise, the number of completely inexperienced owners automatically increases. For this reason and because of the heat wave, the animal protection organization PFOTENHILFE warns against leaving dogs or other animals alone in cars, even for a short time.
“Even if the window is slightly open, the temperatures inside a parked vehicle can rise sharply within a few minutes. This not only causes panic in the locked dogs, but can also result in severe brain damage or even death of the animal. Even a supposedly shaded parking space can be in the blazing sun after a few minutes.”
PFOTENHILFE boss Johanna Stadler
A PFOTENHILFE employee did a self-experiment and almost suffered after just 25 minutes in temperatures over 50 degrees . And unlike dogs, humans can sweat to cool themselves down. And most importantly: they can get out. Caged dogs can only initially make themselves noticeable by panting, barking or whining, but after a short time they become apathetic and may therefore no longer be noticed by passers-by. The argument “I'm just going shopping for a moment” can quickly turn out to be a serious mistake.
To illustrate this, PFOTENHILFE has created a graphic that impressively shows the dramatically increasing temperature within a very short period of time .

What can animal lovers do if they see a dog locked in a car in the heat?
- If it is a business parking lot, you can have the driver page you.
- Make other passers-by aware of the dog.
- Document the situation with photos and videos.
- If the owner returns in a timely manner, educate them about the dangers of car interior heat.
- If the animal cannot be freed within a few minutes, call the police!
- In an emergency, destroying the window must also be considered. Things can be replaced – not life!
How to help an overheated dog?
- Cool the dog down gently! If possible, get into the shade quickly!
- Since the animal is severely dehydrated, it urgently needs water at a comfortable temperature - definitely not cold!
- Moist compresses on the legs and paws help: the evaporation of the water helps to lower the body temperature.
- If the dog does not react and can no longer drink itself, it must be taken to the vet immediately so that the missing fluid can be supplied via infusions!
You might also be interested in: Fact: Robotic lawnmowers are a danger to animals!
Source: Paw Help Association
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