Police called to two dogs trapped in a car in Southport

Photo: Police question irresponsible dog owner

Police called to two dogs trapped in a car in Southport 

Police were called to The Promenade, Southport this afternoon when a group of local teenage girls spotted two dogs trapped inside a red Land Rover Discovery today, Sunday 8 May 2016.

“The girls called the police and even contemplated smashing the window as the dogs were struggling to breath”, said a parent of one of the teenagers.

She added: “The idiots said they had only been away from the car five minutes but my daughter was there for thirty minutes even before the police arrived”

The owner of the two dogs was questioned by police when he finally arrived back vehicle.  Fortunately the dogs survived the ordeal.

What should you do if you see a dog trapped in a hot car?

• Work out the dog’s condition. Are they displaying signs of heatstroke? This could be panting heavily, drooling excessively, appearing lethargic or drowsy, or collapsed. If so, get help immediately.
• Work out how long the dog has been in the car. A pay and display ticket or witnesses may be able to help.
• Attempt to find the owner. Record the registration plate, and make an announcement. Search the area, but get someone to stay with the dog.
• The RSPCA say don’t be afraid to call 999 . The police will refer the RSPCA to the case if their assistance is needed. They also lack the power of entry police have.
• If you are going to break into the car, be aware you need to be able to justify your actions.
• Tell the police exactly what you intend to do. Tell them why, take pictures/video and record witness details, including names and numbers. Follow the directions of the police.
• The RSPCA say : “The law states that you have a lawful excuse to commit damage if you believe that the owner of the property that you damage would consent to the damage if they knew the circumstances (section 5(2)(a) Criminal Damage Act 1971).”

How to travel with a dog in a hot car

The Dogs Trust have put out the following advice for pet owners who will be travelling with dogs in cars on hot days.

• Don’t leave your dog in a parked car for more than a few minutes. It can become very hot, very quickly.
• Keep the dog as cool as possible while driving. Avoid travelling during the hottest parts of the day. Open a window to circulate a breeze.
• Have a supply of cool water and know where to stop for more and to have rest breaks.
• If the dog gets too hot, move to a cooler area, and damp the dog down with cool but not freezing water.

A nation of dog lovers

Paula Boyden, Veterinary Director of Dogs Trust, said: “We claim to be a nation of dog lovers, but it’s shocking how many people are willing to put man’s best friend in serious danger. The saddest thing is that these dogs are often much loved family pets but the owners simply do not appreciate how quickly a dog can die in a hot car where temperatures can reach the same as an oven.

“As soon as the car doors are shut the countdown begins – which could potentially end in an agonising death for the dog. Our message is simple: don’t leave your dog in a parked car”

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