Reminder from Langley Animal Protection Society (LAPS): Keep Pets Safe in Hot Weather

Langley Animal Protection Society (LAPS) is sending out a crucial reminder to pet owners as temperatures rise this summer. The organization has been actively patrolling popular shopping center parking lots in Langley, including Costco, Walmart, Willowbrook Shopping Centre, and Fort Langley, to check for pets left in vehicles during the sunny days.

Executive director Sarah Jones reported that LAPS officers have already encountered multiple dogs left in cars in visible distress. Signs of heat exhaustion in pets include heavy panting, excessive thirst, glazed eyes, difficulty breathing, lethargy, and even seizures. The hot temperatures can have severe consequences on a pet’s organs, potentially leading to organ failure.

Jones emphasized that even a short time in a vehicle on a sunny day can be dangerous for pets. Leaving a window cracked or parking in the shade is not enough to protect them from heatstroke, as the sun moves and the temperature inside the car can quickly rise.

If a pet is found locked in a vehicle, LAPS officers will assess the animal’s condition, measure the temperature inside the car, and take necessary steps to rescue the pet. The pet will then be taken to a veterinarian for assessment and treatment.

Jones advised pet owners to leave their furry friends at home when running errands and to avoid leaving them loose in the bed of a pick-up truck, as it poses risks to both the pet and the public. Dogs should be appropriately confined in a vehicle to prevent accidents and ensure their safety.

For anyone who witnesses a pet locked in a car during hot days, LAPS encourages them to call their hotline at 604-857-5055. It is essential for pet owners to prioritize their pets’ well-being and take necessary precautions to prevent heat-related incidents during the summer months.