B.C. SPCA warns owners to leave pets at home as temperatures soar this weekend

As much of British Columbia braces for a heat wave this weekend, the B.C. SPCA is sharing tips on how to prevent animals from suffering in hot vehicles. 

Environment Canada’s forecast shows temperatures reaching into the low 30s Celsius on Sunday and Monday in some parts of the province. 

Eileen Drever, B.C. SPCA senior officer protection and stakeholder relations, said her top recommendation is to leave pets at home when temperatures spike.

She said even leaving a pet in a vehicle with the air conditioning running is a risk because those systems can fail.

“It takes just a few minutes and something dreadful can happen,” said Drever. “They’re probably better off at home in a cool spot, a basement or a bathroom, with some water.”

The B.C. SPCA said signs of heatstroke in a dog can look like exaggerated panting, lethargy, heavy drooling, an anxious or staring expression, difficulty breathing, muscle tremors or lack of coordination, restlessness, convulsions, vomiting, and collapse.

Drever said if you see an animal that may be in distress in a vehicle the best thing to do is connect with nearby businesses to find the owner, or call police or the B.C. SPCA.

“Do not try to break a window to get in and try to rescue the animal, because it could turn out to be quite negative. If the animal is anxious it could escape. It could also turn on you,” said Drever.  

“I would also suggest, do not confront the owners because they can get defensive,” she said. 

The B.C. SPCA said, in an emergency, covering the vehicle’s windshield with a towel or a blanket can create a temporary sun barrier until help arrives. 

On hot days, Drever suggests walking dogs in the morning or evening when temperatures are lower, noting hot cement can burn a dog’s feet.

Drever said people should contact a vet immediately if they suspect their pet is suffering from heat stroke. She said offering water and placing a damp towel over them could help, but cautions against forcing water down their throat. 

She said some dogs are more vulnerable to heat, including senior dogs, puppies, and flat-nosed breeds. She adds that for dogs with heavy coats, regular grooming will help keep them cool.

The B.C. SPCA said its helpline opened more than 600 files about animals in hot cars last year. It said Friday there have been 143 files so far this year. 

The B.C. SPCA Animal Helpline number is 1-855-622-7722.