"Be right back!" is all it takes.

Parked vehicles are like ovens. And while you should never leave a pet in a vehicle unattended, this is especially true if the weather is warm.

What if it’s only 60 degrees outside–can I leave my pet in the car?

Nope. If it is 60 degrees outside, a vehicle can reach temperatures of 110 degrees, which can lead to heat stroke and/or suffocation.

What if I just have to run into the store real quick. I will be right back! It should only take a minute–is that ok?

No. Humans are humans. We get distracted. We lose track of time. “Be right back!” is all it takes for a pet to die.

What if I park in the shade and leave the windows cracked–isn’t that ok?

Definitely not. Even with the windows cracked and ample shade, this does little to reduce the temperature inside of your vehicle. Think of it this way: You are preheating your oven at home. You crack the oven door. Does this cool down the oven? No.

What should I do if I see a pet unattended in a vehicle? Should I break the window?

No! It is illegal for citizens to break a window of a vehicle that does not belong to them in order to save a pet.  Instead, immediately call 775-322-3647 (775-322-DOGS). Do not call 911, as they will simply transfer you to this number. Just call directly to 775-322-3647 and Washoe County Regional Animal Services will dispatch an officer immediately.

HERE’S WHAT TO DO:

1. Call WCRAS immediately at 775-322-3647 (775-322-DOGS). Do not report this online!

2. Get the vehicle’s license plate number, pet description and vehicle description.

3. If there is a business nearby, request an emergency announcement be made with the descriptive information.

4. Go back to the vehicle and wait for WCRAS to arrive.  Do not enter the vehicle OR confront the owner! 

Animal Control Officers will respond immediately to a report of a pet unattended in a parked vehicle. They can and will take the necessary action to retrieve an animal from a vehicle, including breaking a window, door lock or other measures to rescue the animal. The owner of the vehicle will be held responsible for the cost of repairs to the vehicle. The owner of the vehicle will also receive a fine of over $600 for breaking the law. 

WCRAS receives an average of 600 calls for dogs or cats left in vehicles every summer. Let’s get this number down to ZERO in 2023!

Spread the word! Help us hang fliers! Download and print our Hot Cars Kill Prevention Poster here!

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