Is it safe to leave my pet in the car?
Taking your pet with you in the car may be enjoyable, but there are important things to consider before including your pet on car trips.
  1. What is the weather like today? Check the weather forecast before leaving home. Look up the high or low temperatures, and be advised of any weather warnings of extreme temperatures. If the weather conditions are questionable, be safe and leave your pet at home.
  2. Will you leave your car unattended? If you will frequently leave your pet unattended in the vehicle or for an extended period of time, reconsider including your pet on runs for errands. If you have to leave your vehicle unattended, even momentarily, keep the car running and turn on the air conditioner.
  3. Vehicles heat up quickly. On sunny days even with the windows cracked open the temperature inside a car on an 85 degree day can climb to 102 degrees in 10 minutes, to 120 in 30 minutes. (Ref. Animal Protection Institute)
  4. Not Just Comfort. A dog can withstand a body temperature of 107 to 108 degrees only for a very short time before suffering from brain damage and potentially death. Closed cars interfere with the dog’s normal cooling process of panting, so they are unable to maintain normal body temperature.
  5. What if I witness an animal at risk? If you observe an animal in a vehicle on a hot day and the car is not running and the windows are shut, call Coralville Animal Control at 319.248.1800 immediately and stand by for assistance.

Show All Answers

1. Can officers pick up my loose dog or cat if it is wearing a license or rabies tag?
2. I found a dead animal. Who do I call?
3. Is it safe to leave my pet in the car?
4. Where can I find a dog park?
5. Is that raccoon rabid?
6. Is that skunk rabid?
7. Am I a responsible pet owner?
8. Questions to ask before adopting a pet
9. What can I do about my neighbor's barking dog?