Dog owners are being urged not to leave their dogs in parked cars under any circumstances as temperatures soar across Australia.
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"Sadly, in some cases, the message is simply not getting through on the dangers of leaving your pets in cars, even if you crack the window," said Nadia Crighton from Pet Insurance Australia. "Many pets succumb to the devastating effects of being left in a hot car, even for a quick dash into the supermarket."
A Standford University study showcased how hot a vehicle can reach even in cooler conditions, noting that if it's 22 degrees outside, the temperature inside your car can rise to a staggering 47.2 degrees within 60 minutes. With 80 per cent of the temperature rise occurring within the first half-hour.
"The fact is the interior of a parked car can become an oven, escalating temperatures rapidly. Even on a mild day, the temperature inside a vehicle can surge to dangerous levels," said Ms Crighton. "Pets are unable to regulate their body temperatures under hot conditions, so even in a matter of minutes, they can become distressed and show symptoms of heatstroke."
Heatstroke is not only dangerous for your pet, but it can also affect your savings, with the average claimed amount for heatstroke-related conditions in 2023 reaching $1,707 and a whopping $15,000 being the highest claim benefit paid to a PIA policyholder for a heatstroke condition in the last two years.
Ms Crighton said Pet Insurance Australia saw a tenfold increase in the number of heatstroke-related claims by PIA policyholders as soon as the hot weather started in November 2023 compared to the winter months.
"This summer, we are urging all pet owners that if they cannot take their pets into the shop, please leave them at home where they are safe."
Pet Insurance Australia is also encouraging all Australians to take immediate action if they witness a dog left unattended in a car, regardless of the duration.
"Quick intervention can be the difference between life and death for a distressed animal," said Ms Crighton
Steps to take if a dog is in distress:
- Assess the Situation: Look for signs of distress such as excessive panting, drooling, lethargy, or unresponsiveness
- Note Vehicle Details: Record the make, model, colour, and license plate number
- Contact Authorities: Immediately call local law enforcement or animal control, providing them with detailed information
- Stay with the Dog: If authorities are delayed, attempt to find the owner or gather witnesses to the incident
