Summer’s officially here! As temperatures rise, it’s important to keep not only your well being in mind, but also your pet’s. Washoe County Regional Animal Services (WCRAS) is reminding pet owners that leaving a pet in an enclosed vehicle, even for a short time, can be deadly.
Studies have shown that a car parked in the sun on a 75 degree F day will reach an internal temperature of 89 degrees F within 10 minutes. On a 90 degree F day, the internal temperature of the car will reach 109 degrees in 10 minutes.
A dog’s normal temperature is an average of 102 degrees F. Because it can be difficult for dogs to cool off in high temperatures, dogs are more prone to heat exhaustion. Once a dog’s core temperature reaches 104 to 105 degrees, they enter the first stages of heat exhaustion and without intervention could quickly suffer heat stroke.
It’s also against the law to leave a dog or cat unattended in a motor vehicle during a period of extreme heat (NRS 574.195).
“An animal control officer may use any force that is reasonable and necessary under the circumstances to remove from a motor vehicle a cat or dog that is allowed to remain in the motor vehicle.”
A person found in violation of this law could face a misdemeanor charge for animal cruelty and a fine of $635 and/or six months in jail.
For details, contact Bobby Smith 775-353-8945.
