Because dogs do not sweat,
aside from a small amount through their paw pads, they depend on breathing and
panting to exchange warm air for cool air. When the air temperature is as warm
or warmer than their body temperature – such as inside a vehicle parked in the
sun – they are unable to cool themselves and can very quickly enter heat
stroke.
Heat stroke is an emergency
and, when left untreated, is an excruciatingly painful way for a dog to perish.
During severe heat stroke, dogs will pant heavily, have difficulty breathing,
and begin to vomit. They will often pass loose, bloody stools before collapsing
and having seizures. Eventually the dog will enter a coma and die. Many times,
even if a dog is rescued before death, permanent damage to the heart, kidneys,
or brain is possible.
Although the temperature
outside may be nice, it only takes a few minutes for a car parked in the sun,
even with the windows opened, to become an oven to a dog.
Please, remind friends and
family to not leave dogs in parked cars, even when the weather is nice, even
for only a few minutes.