Never leave your dog in a hot car

Heading out to run errands? Leave your dog in the comfort of your home or ensure your destination allows pets before inviting your furry friend along. 

Never leave your dog in a parked car for any period of time. Dogs control most of their body temperature by panting, and when a dog becomes very hot, panting won’t stop them from overheating. 

The temperature inside a parked car can climb 19 degrees in less than 10 minutes, exceeding the temperature outside the vehicle. 

Dogs left alone in a car can quickly dehydrate, develop heatstroke, or die. Parking in the shade or leaving the windows down won’t prevent your dog from dying in a hot car.

Residents who come across a pet in a hot car should call Mesa County Animal Services at 970-242-4646. Even if the dog appears well, it can deteriorate quickly, so take action immediately.