NEWS RELEASE
ONTARIO SPCA ORILLIA ANIMAL CENTRE
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With summer upon us, the Ontario SPCA Orillia Animal Centre is joining efforts to educate the public about the dangers of leaving pets unattended in vehicles.
The issue of owners leaving their pets unattended in vehicles during the hot summer months is a serious, ongoing problem across Ontario and puts animals’ lives at risk. There is no excuse for leaving a pet unattended in a vehicle!
To educate the public, the Ontario SPCA launched its 2018 No Hot Pets campaign on June 21 in partnership with the Orillia Animal Centre, as well as SPCAs and humane societies from across Canada.
The Orillia Animal Centre is asking the public to share the dangers of leaving pets in vehicles using the hashtag #nohotpets on social media.
You can also help make a difference by going online to take the pledge never to leave an animal in a vehicle and to report it if you see it happen. Those who pledge will receive a free No Hot Pets window decal for their vehicles, while supplies last.
“People still aren’t getting the message about how dangerous it is to leave your pet unattended in a vehicle,” says Carol Beard, Centre Manager, Orillia Animal Centre. “It’s completely unacceptable. Leave your pet at home, and if you must take your pet, make sure that someone is with it at all times.”
Businesses across the province are also getting on board with the No Hot Pets campaign and are welcoming animals into their place of business while pet owners shop. For a complete list of participating businesses, as well as information on how to register, click here.
Parked cars can quickly reach deadly temperatures, even on relatively mild days with the car parked in the shade and the windows slightly open. Dogs have a limited ability to sweat, so even a short time in a hot environment can be life-threatening.
If you observe an animal suffering in the heat, call 310-SPCA (7722) or your local police.
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