Reminder: In Hot Weather, Don't Leave Pets in Cars

As seasonal temperatures rise around the Bay Area, the SPCA (Society for Prevention of Cruelty to Animals) and animal care activists are advising pet owners to be extra careful when leaving dogs or other pets locked inside vehicles.

Animals exposed to high temperatures can quickly suffer brain damage or death from heatstroke when left in a vehicle on a day when temperatures outside reach only mild levels, according to the SPCA.

Leaving windows open or parking in the shade will not prevent your pet from getting overheated, officials said.

If a pet becomes overheated, the SPCA recommends taking the animal to a cool area and applying cold water or ice packs to the animal's head and body.

Anyone who spots an animal locked inside a vehicle that could lead to overheating should call a local animal shelter or 9-1-1.

The animal shelter in Redwood City is , located at 871 5th Avenue and can be reached at 650-367-1405.

- Bay City News Service

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