Petco Text Logo
Petco Pet Logo

What are the dangers and health effects of leaving a dog in a hot car?

Updated On September 23rd, 2025

Pet's info: Dog | Saint Bernard | Male | neutered | 7 years and 3 months old | 145 lbs

what are the behavioral and physiological effects with leaving your dog in a hot car ?

1 Answer

Most Helpful Answer

Image profile

Answered By Dr. Macartney, BVet Med, MRCVS

Veterinarian

Published on September 6th, 2017

The temperature within a car can increase expeomtentoally for every minute a dog is inside their life is at risk. The greatest concern is the risk of heatstroke. Heatstroke is a life threatening emergency and any dog experiencing it should be taken to see a veterinarian immediately. Signs of heatstroke include; •shade seeking •difficulty breathing •panting •bright red tongue •weakness •depression •vomiting or diarrhoea •coma •shock With Heatstroke cases the sooner a dog is seen the better the outcome. The vet will cool Whitie, provide shock doses of fluid therapy, provide oxygen, and treat complications such as heart and kidney failure. The psychological affects would be fear, anxiety and pain. All Of which can cause long term damage to the mental health of a dog.

Vote icon

1Pet Parents found this answer helpful

image
Have A Vet Question?

Book an appointment with the pros – our expert vets are here to help.

Sponsored