Car parks targeted in bid to protect dogs during hot weather

A ‘dogs die in hot cars’ campaign is being backed by Argyll and Bute Council.

Stencilled messages will be sprayed in car parks reminding people not to gamble with their dog’s life, with the busiest car parks and those used by dog walkers being targeted.

When it’s 22 Celsius outside, within an hour, the temperature can reach more than twice that inside a vehicle, which can result in death for a dog.

The campaign – which has seen the Dogs Trust release a dramatic video – stresses that dogs are covered in fur and do not sweat in the same way humans do.

Dogs pant to keep themselves cool, but this is less effective at high temperatures and humidity, so that a three degree rise in a dog’s body temperature can be fatal.

Roddy McCuish, the council’s policy lead for roads and amenity services, said: “Argyll and Bute is a very dog-friendly destination and we welcome residents, visitors and their pets into many of our shops, restaurants, cafes and bars.

“But if you aren’t sure you can take your dog with you when you leave the car, we urge you to leave it safely at home. Please do not take the risk by thinking you won’t be long. Not long is too long.”