Animal Control Report: Dogs in Hot Cars

Animal Control officers in Alexandria deal with a variety of calls every week. Here's a glance at some recent incidents in the city courtesy of Patrick Cole, the director of communications and outreach at the Animal Welfare League of Alexandria.

Animals in hot cars — Alexandria Animal Control is reminding city residents that it is illegal to leave animals confined in a car when the outside temperature is 70 degrees or higher.

On March 30, an Animal Control officer was dispatched by Alexandria police to the Landmark Mall parking lot for dogs confined in a car.

While there was no violation, the officer prepared a warning notice for the owner of the vehicle advising that it is illegal to leave animals in cars when temperatures reach 70 degrees.

While on scene, the officer observed a dog inside the crate, which appeared to be in good health, as well as an open container of alcohol. The officer requested police assistance and prepared another warning for the second vehicle.

When police arrived, the owners of the two vehicles emerged from the carnival taking place in the mall parking lot. The officer advised them on the ordinance against leaving pets in hot cars and asked them to leave their dogs at home as the temperature begins to rise.

There were no Animal Control violations but Alexandria Police Officers continued to question the owner of the second vehicle about the open container.

Goose reportedly tangled in fishing line — On April 2, an Animal Control officer received a report of a Canada goose tangled in fishing line at the lake in the 4800 block of Ben Brenman Park Drive. The caller reported seeing a goose struggling to get free of the fishing line and bobber.

The officer arrived on scene but could not locate the goose despite examining several geese in the park.

Animal Control urges residents to clean up after themselves and others to prevent harm to companion animals and wildlife. Fishing line, fishing hooks, plastic rings and other materials pose a deadly threat to birds, turtles and numerous other animals.

Canada geese are federally protected and anyone causing injury or death to the birds can face criminal charges. If residents see an animal in distress, they should call Animal Control immediately at 703-746-4774 or the Alexandria Police Department’s non-emergency line at 703-746-4444.

For more information about Alexandria Animal Control, visit the AWLA website.