A pet owner has been charged under Ontario's animal welfare legislation after a dog was found unattended inside a vehicle at Tanger Outlets, according to South Simcoe Police.
Police say officers responded to a report of a dog that had been left alone in a vehicle at the shopping centre. Upon arrival, officers located the vehicle and found the dog confined inside a cage in the trunk area.
The vehicle was not running at the time, and the front window was open by approximately one inch. The outside temperature was about 23 C, police said. Officers also noted that there was no water available to the animal.
South Simcoe Police attempted to locate the vehicle's owner, including making a public announcement. While those efforts were underway, the owner returned to the vehicle and was met by officers.
According to police, the dog had been left unattended for more than 30 minutes.
As a result, the owner was charged under Ontario's Provincial Animal Welfare Services Act (PAWS Act).
Police urge residents not to leave pets in parked vehicles
Police are using the incident as an opportunity to remind the public about the dangers of leaving animals inside vehicles, even when temperatures may not seem excessively hot.
"Please don't underestimate how quickly conditions inside a vehicle can become dangerous for an animal. Cracking a window does not provide adequate protection from heat, and pets can be at risk even when the weather may not initially feel extremely hot."
"If you're shopping, running errands, or visiting a public place, please leave your pets safely at home rather than unattended in a vehicle."
What to do if you see a pet in distress
Anyone who sees an animal in distress inside a vehicle is encouraged to contact local police or animal welfare authorities immediately.
Authorities continue to remind residents that temperatures inside parked vehicles can rise rapidly, creating potentially life-threatening conditions for pets in a short period of time.
