Leaving dogs in hot cars in Okanagan is still not cool

KELOWNA – The Kelowna SPCA received over a dozen calls reporting dogs left in hot cars yesterday, May 28.

This is an issue every summer in the Okanagan and this year is clearly no exception.

Kelowna B.C. SPCA branch manager Sean Hogan says the fact people are still leaving dogs in their cars is “ridiculous."

"Bottom line is: leave your pets at home," he says.

Hogan stressed that whether a dog is in a car for four minutes or four hours, the risk of heatstroke is always present.

Leaving a dog in a hot enclosure or vehicle without adequate ventilation and sufficient shade violates Central Okanagan regional district Bylaw No. 1343. Owners can be fined $150 for leaving their dog in their car.

If you spot a dog in a hot car call the B.C. SPCA hotline 1-855-622-7722 or local police.

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