Public Urged to Act if They See Dog in Distress in Parked Car

Monday 1st June 2026

By Bridlington Gold Radio Editor

Humberside Police have issued a stark warning to pet owners as warmer weather returns, reminding the public that dogs can die within minutes if left inside a hot vehicle.

Officers say many owners still underestimate how quickly a parked car can become dangerously hot — even on mild days, even with the windows cracked, and even if the driver believes they will “only be a few minutes”.

Police stress that cracked windows, parking in the shade or leaving water in the car do nothing to prevent heatstroke, as vehicles act like greenhouses and can reach life‑threatening temperatures in a very short time.

Dogs are particularly vulnerable because they cannot cool themselves effectively in stagnant, overheated air. Heatstroke can cause organ failure, brain damage or death in as little as 15 minutes, and leaving a pet to suffer in these conditions may constitute an offence under the Animal Welfare Act 2006.

What to do if you see a dog in distress

Humberside Police advise the public to take immediate action if they spot a dog struggling inside a parked vehicle:

• Look for signs of heatstroke such as heavy panting, drooling, lethargy or collapse

• If the dog appears to be in danger, call 999

• Note the vehicle’s make, model and registration and alert nearby businesses so the owner can be contacted

• Stay with the vehicle until help arrives

Officers are urging people to share the message widely, adding that one missed car journey will never harm a dog — but one hot day might.