PET ADVICE DURING HOT WEATHER

PET ADVICE DURING HOT WEATHER

Throughout this incredibly warm week we have received a number of calls reporting dogs being left in vehicles at various locations across Tamworth.

As temperatures remain hot, we are reminding residents that leaving animals in vehicles can place them at serious risk.

🌡️ Even on a mild day, the temperature inside a parked car can increase rapidly, becoming life-threatening within minutes. [rspca.org.uk]

⚖️ Legal reminder:
While it is not automatically an offence to leave an animal in a vehicle, owners may be prosecuted under the Animal Welfare Act 2006 if this causes unnecessary suffering or puts the animal at risk. [kinship.com]

✅ Our advice:

Do not leave animals unattended in vehicles during warm weather

Ensure pets are kept in a cool, safe environment with water

Plan ahead — if pets are not permitted at your destination, leave them at home

📞 If you see an animal in distress inside a vehicle:
Call 999 immediately so emergency services can respond

Normally, damaging a car = criminal damage.

✅ Best practice:

Call 999 first

Gather evidence (photos/video, witnesses)

Only act if necessary to prevent serious harm or death

💬 Please think: If you feel warm, your pet will feel it even more.

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Message Sent By
John Horton
(Staffordshire Police, PCSO, Tamworth)