Ontario SPCA launches 2014 No Hot Pets campaign

As the country enjoys warmer temperatures, the Ontario SPCA is launching it's second annual No Hot Pets campaign to promote awareness and prevent animals from being left inside hot vehicles. 

Recently, in Langley, British Columbia, six dogs were left in a hot car while under the care of a local dog walker. All perished from the heat. This story alone serves as a harsh reminder that hot cars can be deadly for animals. Dogs have a limited ability to sweat, even a short time in a hot environment can be life-threatening. A dog's normal body temperature is about 39°C and a temperature of 41°C can be withstood only for a short time before irreparable brain damage or even death can occur. 

Through the No Hot Pets online forum, citizens are asked to share the posters and leaflets about the dangers of leaving pets in cars. In addition, pet owners are asked to go online to www.nohotpets.ca and pledge not to leave their pets in their vehicles. Those who pledge will receive a No Hot Pets window decal for their car.

Visit www.nohotpets.ca for more information. 

OSPCA officer battles summer heat

Ontario SPCA officer Brad Dewar demonstrates the dangers of leaving animals in cars during the summer months

To bring a local spin to the widely-watched YouTube video of Dr. Ernie Ward, the OSPCA placed one of its officers inside a vehicle on a partly cloudy summer day. The outside temperature a breezy 24°C. Inside the car, Dewar suffered as the temperatures climbed above 50°C in just 30 minutes. 

This video is meant to educate pet owners about the risks involved with leaving your pets (and children) in the car and is part of the OSPCA's award winning No Hot Pets campaign.