Dogs die in hot cars: not long is too long
Abstract
A recent survey by the RSPCA has revealed that almost half of people questioned believe it is acceptable to leave dogs in the car on a hot day. You may have seen their campaign on social media emphasising that ‘Not long is too long’. James Yeates from the RSPCA urges readers of The Veterinary Nurse to get on board with their campaign. Together we can help to stop dogs, and other animals, suffering.
Dogs should never be left in a hot car. This isn't a new message, it's something we've been shouting from the rooftops for a number of years now, but it's staggering that recent survey results revealed that almost half of people still think there are times when it's okay.
The message is getting through to many people but there are still too many instances where animals are being left in sweltering cars, caravans and conservatories and tragically some of them have deadly consequences, like last summer when four dogs died.
A recent survey of more than 8000 people in Great Britain aged 16+, commissioned by the RSPCA, revealed that only 55% agreed that it is never acceptable to leave a dog in a hot car. This means that a staggering 45% of people still feel there can be acceptable circumstances to leave a dog unattended in a parked vehicle. However, the RSPCA and 11 other organisations — who are working together to raise awareness of the Dogs Die in Hot Cars campaign — are united in their views: there is never an excuse to leave a dog in a hot car. ‘Not long’ is too long.
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