Pet safety/RDCO

By Vernon Matters Staff

Pet safety

RDCO warns to not leave pets in hot cars as temperatures rise

May 29, 2025 | 1:00 PM

As temperatures in the Okanagan, including Vernon and Kelowna, approach the 30-degree mark this weekend, the Regional District of Central Okanagan (RDCO) is urging pet owners not to leave animals unattended in vehicles.

“Even with windows partially open or cars parked in the shade, the temperature inside a vehicle can rise quickly to levels that may seriously harm or even kill your pet,” the RDCO said in a press release Thursday. “It takes as little as 10 minutes for a dog to become overwhelmed by heat in a car.”

Under the Responsible Dog Ownership bylaw, anyone who leaves a dog in an enclosed vehicle without adequate ventilation or shade could face a $500 fine.

“Leaving your car running with air conditioning is not a safe option,” the release added. “It can harm the environment, violate bylaws and put your pet at risk if the air conditioning fails. The safest place for your pet is at home with water and shade.”

The RDCO also advised that members of the public should not attempt to break a window if they see an animal in distress inside a hot car. “Only RCMP or SPCA special constables are legally allowed to enter a vehicle to assist animals in distress.”

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If you see an animal in a hot vehicle, call the SPCA Animal Helpline at 1-855-622-7722 or 911 in an emergency.

More information is available at rdco.com/dogs or spca.bc.ca.