Sass the dog encourages people not to leave their pets in parked cars.LOCALS are urged to call for help if they see pets left in hot cars.
As temperatures rise, Casey Council has put out a warning to pet owners not to leave their animals in parked vehicles whether inside the car or on the back of a utility tray.
Casey mayor Janet Halsall said leaving pets in cars for any period of time was an unacceptable risk.
“People leaving their pets in cars are endangering their animal’s lives and risking prosecution,” she said.
“The inside of a car can heat up very quickly. In fact, it takes only six minutes for the temperature in the car to climb to a dangerous level.
“It is also unwise to leave an animal on the back of a utility without adequate water, shelter and shade.
“It can also become intensely hot on the back of a ute, particularly for dogs’ paws.”
Anyone who sees a distressed animal in a hot car or on the back of a ute is urged not to delay in getting emergency help.
Residents are asked to contact the police or the RSPCA to ensure the animal doesn’t suffer from stress, heat exhaustion or, in a worst case scenario, die.
The council also encourages residents to regularly check the water supplies, shade and shelter for all pets and animals at home, including livestock.
“The best place for the family pet is at home where they can move around and find a nice cool spot in the shade as well as ample supply of water,” Cr Halsall said.
For more information contact the Victorian RSPCA on 9224 2222.
