Hot cars are deadly for dogs

As temperatures rise, so do the dangers of leaving pets in parked cars. Even with windows cracked or when parked in the shade, the inside of a vehicle can heat 19 degrees in only 10 minutes, putting your dog at serious risk.

Dogs can’t cool themselves the way humans do. Once overheated, panting alone isn’t enough, and heatstroke, dehydration or even death can happen fast.

Never leave your dog in a parked car, even for a moment.

If you see a dog alone in a vehicle, don’t wait. Call Mesa County Animal Services at 970-242-4646 right away. The dog may look okay, but conditions can turn dangerous in minutes.