THE VIRGINIAN-PILOT
Copyright (c) 1994, Landmark Communications, Inc.
DATE: Thursday, July 21, 1994 TAG: 9407210129
SECTION: DAILY BREAK PAGE: E5 EDITION: FINAL
LENGTH: Short : 36 lines
PET LOVERS may be aware of the dangers of leaving their pets closed in the car on a hot day, but they often do not realize how quickly a car can overheat, causing heat prostration or heat stroke for the animals trapped inside.
There are very few days of the year in this area when it is a safe thing to do, says Dr. Cindy Adair, veterinarian at the Animal Medical Center in Virginia Beach.
``You need to try to judge when you are comfortable in the car with the windows shut and no air conditioning,'' she said.
``People tend not to think ahead with their dogs and leaving them in the car,'' said Dr. Ed Tudor, veterinarian at the Franklin Animal Hospital.
He added that people will put their dogs in the car for a quick run to the convenience store. They may find a bargain in the store and stop to chat and return to the car to find a dangerously overheated pet.
``It takes only about 20 minutes for a car to heat up to 120 degrees,'' warned Dr. Alfred Brooks, veterinarian at the Chesapeake Animal Hospital. ``Some breeds, especially the short-nosed dogs like boxers and bulldogs, are more prone to heat prostration.''
Brooks added another warning. Your animal can lock you out of your own vehicle, if you have left the keys in the car and the dog happens to hit the door lock button.
- Phyllis Speidell by CNB