GRESHAM, Ore. (KATU) — As temperatures soar, Gresham police are urging residents to be vigilant about the dangers of leaving dogs in hot cars.
The department has already begun receiving calls about pets left in cars, highlighting the risk of overheating.
“Officers are starting to receive calls about dogs in hot cars. Dogs are particularly susceptible to dying from overheating,” the Gresham Police Department said in a tweet. “Even in the shade, temperatures can soar quickly to dangerous levels. Leaving the windows open has little effect on how hot it is inside the car.”
Authorities advise to contact the police immediately if you see a dog in a hot car.
Portland is also experiencing a sharp rise in missing pets as the summer heat intensifies. July, recognized as National Lost Pet Prevention Month, sees a doubling of lost pet reports compared to winter.
In 2017, Oregon passed a law protecting members of the public from damages if they break into a locked car to save the life of a pet or a child.
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David Olthaar, founder of PetRadar, said, “We see a clear pattern every summer in Portland and nearby towns. Fireworks, backyard parties, and open doors all add up to a risky season for pets.”
Pet owners are encouraged to take preventive measures, such as microchipping pets, ensuring ID tags are current, and keeping pets indoors during loud events, to avoid the heartbreak of a missing pet.
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