With the hot weather upon us, motorists are reminded that the interiors of cars can quickly heat up, making it intolerable for pets.

An animal can be overwhelmed by heat in as little as ten minutes. The temperature in a parked car – even in the shade with partly open windows – can reach a level high enough to seriously harm or even kill your pet.

If you find an animal in a vehicle that appears to be in distress, follow these steps:

• Look for the owner of the car. Go to nearby stores and have the owner paged.
• Attempt to provide shade or water for the animal.
• Call the RCMP detachment in your area.
• Stay at the car until the police officer arrives.
• File a report with the Nova Scotia SPCA online or by calling 1-888-703-7722.

Source: Media Release