Every year, hundreds of dogs suffer and die from heat stroke after being left in hot vehicles. It’s a tragic and preventable situation. Even when the outside temperature feels “mild,” the interior of a parked car can become dangerously hot within minutes — turning a quick errand into a life-threatening situation for your pet.

How Hot Does It Get?

You may think cracking a window is enough — it’s not. Cars act like greenhouses, trapping heat inside and causing temperatures to soar rapidly.

Here’s how quickly the temperature can rise:

Outside Temperature Car Interior After 10 Minutes After 30 Minutes
75°F (24°C) 94°F (34°C) 109°F (43°C)
85°F (29°C) 104°F (40°C) 119°F (48°C)
95°F (35°C) 114°F (46°C) 129°F (54°C)

Even on a 70°F day, your car’s interior can reach over 100°F in under 30 minutes.

Dogs Overheat Faster Than Humans

Dogs can’t cool themselves like we do. They primarily regulate their body temperature by panting, which becomes ineffective in hot, enclosed spaces. Within minutes, a dog’s core temperature can rise to dangerous levels, leading to heat stroke, organ failure, or death.

Common Misconceptions

  • “I’ll only be gone a few minutes.”
    Emergencies, long lines, or distractions can easily delay your return.
  • “I parked in the shade.”
    Shade moves, and even shaded cars heat up rapidly.
  • “I left the windows cracked.”
    This has minimal effect on the internal temperature.

Signs of Heat Distress in Dogs

If your dog has been exposed to high temperatures, watch for:

  • Heavy or excessive panting
  • Glassy eyes or a panicked expression
  • Weakness or staggering
  • Drooling, vomiting, or diarrhea
  • Bright red or pale gums
  • Collapse or unresponsiveness

If you see any of these signs, act fast — move your pet to a shaded, cool area and contact a veterinarian immediately.

What You Can Do Instead

  • Leave pets at home during errands.
  • Shop at pet-friendly stores that allow dogs inside.
  • Use curbside pickup or delivery when possible.
  • Plan outings around your dog’s comfort — not the other way around.

If You See a Dog Locked in a Hot Car

  • Assess the situation — Look for signs of distress.
  • Note the car’s make, model, and license plate.
  • Go into nearby businesses and ask them to make an announcement.
  • Call local authorities or animal control. Many areas have laws protecting animals in distress.
  • Stay with the vehicle until help arrives.

In some jurisdictions, breaking a car window to save a pet is legal — but it’s best to know your local laws first.

Leaving your dog in a hot car, even for just a few minutes, is never worth the risk. What seems like a harmless errand can quickly become fatal. Let’s work together to raise awareness and keep our pets safe.