‘DOGS IN HOT CAR’ REPORTS ON THE RISE AS WEATHER HEATS UP
As temperatures increase, Wenatchee Valley Animal Care and Control (ACC) is responding to an alarming number of reports of dogs left in hot cars. The interior of a car can quickly become an oven within minutes. Leaving windows cracked or down a few inches is insufficient and will only result in a two to three degree difference to the vehicle’s interior.
“A dog’s condition can change from not in distress to death, in a matter of three to six minutes” explains Dr. Kyla Krissek, Medical Director at Wenatchee Valley Humane Society.
Per Revised Code of Washington (RCW) 16.52.340, animal control officers and law enforcement officers are authorized to enter a vehicle or enclosed space to remove an animal without liability to any damaged property.
It’s important to note this law only covers animal control and law enforcement officers, not the general public, and concerned citizens should call ACC or law enforcement if they see an animal who may be suffering or is in danger.
Signs of distress may include panting heavily, lethargic, no water, lying on floor or trying to seek any kind of shade.
If the outside temp is 70 degrees or higher and you see a dog in distress, please call ACC at 509-662-9577, Opt. 1
Callers should be prepared to give the location, description of the vehicle and license plate number. This information helps officers locate the pet owner and gain access to the vehicle.
About ACC
Wenatchee Valley Animal Care and Control (ACC) is a separate LLC of Wenatchee Valley Humane Society and is a government contracted agency. Its mission is to help protect the safety and well-being of the citizens and animals of our jurisdictions through compassion, education and law enforcement. ACC is contracted to provide services for the Cities of Cashmere, Chelan, East Wenatchee, Entiat, Rock Island, Wenatchee, the Town of Waterville and Chelan & Douglas Counties.
