What does the law say about leaving dogs in cars in the UK?

Every summer, news feeds and social media timelines are flooded with reports of pets being abandoned in vehicles. It’s important to look into the rules of leaving dogs in vehicles because of the recent heatwave.

First things first, you should never leave your pet in a hot car with the windows open. Even in the shade, there may not be enough ventilation to adequately cool down your pet, which could result in heatstroke.

Even with the windows open, the temperature inside a car can double in less than an hour! If your dog or other pet becomes too hot, they may have heatstroke and, in the worst situation, may pass away.

In the UK, it is not against the law to leave your pet alone in the car, but if something were to happen because of doing so, you could be charged with animal cruelty and subject to a fine that is uncapped and a possible jail sentence of six months under the provisions of the Animal Welfare Act of 2006. 

Heatstroke symptoms

Excessive panting is the most obvious sign of heat stroke in dogs. Other symptoms may include drooling, swollen gums, vomiting, diarrhoea, mental dullness or loss of awareness, uncoordinated movement, and collapse. The best way to avoid harm to your pet is to not leave your pet unattended in a vehicle.

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