To the editor:
It's summer time, and once again, I see animals left locked up in their owners' cars.
I am writing this letter to try and bring some awareness to people of animals overheating in vehicles.
Leaving the windows open a few inches does not make your car cooler for your pet. Leave your pet home, or with a friend or family member.
If you absolutely have no choice but to bring your pet shopping with you, park in the shade and leave your windows wide open, but keep in mind that even then the vehicle will be warm when you return.
I met some young people last summer who were leaving their pet in their van while going in to shop at one of the local grocery stores. They assured me their pet was going to be OK because they were leaving it some water.
If you think about this, when was the last time you left a bottle of water in your vehicle on a hot day and came back to cool water?
I have a challenge for everyone who likes to bring their pets with them in their vehicles. On the next hot sunny day, or even a cloudy and warm day, put on your winter jacket, gloves, a toque and your boots and go and sit in your vehicle.
Open the windows a few inches like you would for your pet, and see how long you last without overheating.
This might give you some indication of how your pet is reacting in your vehicle while your shopping in an air-conditioned store.
There are many stories of animals overheating and even dying of heat stroke from being left in a vehicle.
Please think about this the next time you think your pet wants to come with you for a car ride.
Karen Scott
108 Mile Ranch
