There is, without a doubt, ZERO excuses for a dog (or any animal, for that matter) to be left in a car...especially with the rising heat.  There are many good Samaritans that want to act quickly if they see a dog in an unattended vehicle.  Have you seen this on Facebook?

Yesterday, these pictures were taken at Sam's Club, in Augusta when the temperatures were in the 80's.

TO CLARIFY, THE COMMENTS STATE IT IS LEGAL TO LEAVE A DOG IN A CAR.  THAT IS NOT THE CASE.  PLEASE CLICK HERE AND GO TO PAGE 66

However, temperatures in a vehicle can rise very quickly:

Courtesy of veteraniaryclinic.com
Courtesy of veteraniaryclinic.com
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DOG DO DIE IN HOT CARS!!!

Previous information, on Facebook, encourages bystanders to break a car window if they see a dog in distress.

However, in the state of Maine...it is against the law to break a window.  You can be charged with destruction of property.  Sadly, I know.  But, the law is the law.  Under Maine law, you need to notify the authorities (ie: police, fire dept., animal control officer) and they will access the situation and take the necessary steps to protect the animal.  So basically, leave it to the professionals.

In the meantime, while you are waiting for first responders to arrive:

  • Take a picture of the license plate with your phone
  • Stay with the animal...never leave the vehicle.
  • Ask someone to get water (in the event first responders get the dog out and you can start cooling the dog)
  • Remain calm (most important)

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