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The SPCA is reminding dog owners that it takes only minutes for an animal left in a vehicle on a warm day to succumb to heatstroke and suffocation.
A spokesperson says the temperature inside a closed vehicle in the sun can reach 50 degrees Celsius in less than 15 minutes.
“Temperatures inside vehicles can rise rapidly, even when parked in the shade with the windows open,” they say.
“If you must take your dog with you in the car, bring fresh water and a non-spill water dish for them, and take them with you when you leave the car.
If you love your dog, don’t leave them in a car.”
Dog owners can be fined $300 for leaving a dog in the car, and if the welfare impact on the animal is significant, owners can face prosecution.
SPCA officers have the right to hand out infringement notices and fines to people who do this.
Bystanders worried about dogs trapped in hot cars should call the police or SPCA on 0800 SPCA NZ immediately.
