Contact for reporters:
Mary Guiden
(970) 491-6892
mary.guiden@colostate.edu
Download a graphic created by CSU that shows how quickly heat rises in a hot car: https://col.st/RQguS
A pet should never be left in a vehicle in the sun, even if the temperature is mild and the windows are open. Heatstroke can cause organ failure and death. The CSU James L. Voss Veterinary Teaching Hospital has already seen three cases of dogs left in hot cars this spring. Thanks to quick veterinary care, all three dogs survived.
In a matter of minutes, a dog may become overheated while exercising, playing or just by being left in the heat with no water or shade. Heat exhaustion can quickly become a life-threatening heatstroke.
Always provide access to fresh water and shade – especially in the heat of the day.
Obesity and pre-existing medical conditions put pets at much higher risk of heat exhaustion and heatstroke. Puppies, elderly dog, and dogs with dark-colored or long-haired coats are more at risk, and flat-faced breeds, including bulldogs and pugs, are more susceptible to overheating.
If you are concerned about a pet (or person) that is locked in a hot car, contact your local law enforcement. The Colorado legislature passed a law in 2017 that provides immunity from prosecutions for civilians who break into a locked vehicle to rescue a dog, cat, or at-risk person.
The CSU Veterinary Teaching Hospital is open 24/7 for emergencies, 300 W. Drake Road, Fort Collins, (970) 297-5000.