The city is issuing a reminder of the dangers of leaving pets in vehicles after receiving dozens of complaints this spring and summer. Between May and July 20, the city received 37 complaints of animals left in hot vehicles, an offence which can result in enforcement under Edmonton’s animal care and control bylaw, the Animal Protection Act or the Criminal Code of Canada. “You may think you’ll be gone for just a short time, but that’s all it takes for a situation to turn tragic,” said JongHwan Rhee, a superintendent in the animal care and park rangers department. “A few simple precautions can help keep your pet safe and healthy.” When the outdoor temperature is 15 C, the temperature inside a vehicle can reach 28 C in less than 15 minutes, according to the city. Pets are at risk of heat exhaustion, heatstroke and death. The city recommends: Leaving a vehicle’s windows open is not reliable protection, the city says. Symptoms of heat-related illness include excessive panting, drooling, weakness, vomiting, diarrhea, confusion, fainting, or difficulty walking and should be addressed by a veterinarian. Anyone who sees an animal left unattended in a vehicle is asked to:
