It's an unfortunate reminder the Town of Cochrane and RCMP has to make every year: With the hot weather upon us, motorists are reminded the interior of cars can quickly heat up making it intolerable for pets and children.

A child or pet can be overwhelmed by heat in a little as 10 minutes, the temperature in a parked car can reach a level high enough to seriously harm or kill a pet or small child, even if it's in the shade, with the windows cracked.

Constable Jennifer Brewer, Cochrane RCMP, says there are steps you should follow if you see an animal in a vehicle that appears to be in distress.

"If you find an animal in a vehicle that appears to be in distress, look for the vehicle owner first," she says. "Then attempt to provide shade or water for the animal, call the police in the area, stay with the car until the police officer or someone from protective services arrives, and file a report with the humane society."

If the animal does not appear in distress, do not call immediately, keep an eye on it, and call if the situation escalates.

Brewer explains the penalties for leaving an animal unattended in a car are a huge inconvenience.

"If we're going on the minor side, the bylaw  for animals left unattended and are in distress, the fine itself is $200. If they choose to go through provincial legislation, the Animal Protection Act, it's $500. You also are looking at losing your animal, if we have to break into the vehicle the owner is subject to replacing their own window. When you go through provincial statutes there is a record kept, you will be flagged when you try to get a pet after that."

She highly advises to not take matters into your own hands if you see an animal left in a hot car, if you do, use extreme caution.

"What happens if that car owner comes back and they are an aggressive person?! Also if an investigation shows the child or animal wasn't in distress you are looking at a mischief charge. "

Signs of distress in animals include:

  • Exaggerated panting
  • Rapid of erratic pulse
  • Anxious or staring expression
  • Weakness and muscle tremors
  • Lack of coordination
  • Red or blue tongue and lips
  • Convulsions or vomiting
  • Collapse or coma