Dogs are frequently seen as members of the family, and many people like taking them along on excursions or errands. However, keeping your dog in the car might be risky, especially in severe weather.
In certain places, it is also unlawful, punishable by fines or even imprisonment. In this post, we’ll look at Ohio’s statute that protects animals left in parked automobiles, as well as what you should do if you observe a distressed dog.
Ohio’s Law for Leaving Animals in Parked Vehicles
Ohio is one of 31 states with regulations that address animals left in unattended automobiles. Section 959.133 of the Ohio Revised Code states that a person commits an offense if:
- confines or restrains an animal in a motor vehicle.
- Failure to give the animal with adequate ventilation, water, or a reasonable temperature
- Puts the animal at risk of significant physical damage or death.
The infraction is a second-degree misdemeanor, punishable by up to 90 days in prison and/or a $750 fine. However, if the animal suffers substantial physical damage or death, the act is a first-degree misdemeanor punishable by up to 180 days in prison and/or a $1,000 fine.
The legislation also offers protection for some people who rescue an animal from a parked car by following these steps:
- Have a good faith and reasonable conviction that the animal is at imminent risk of being hurt.
- Determine that the car is locked, and forced entry is required.
- Call 911 or law police before or just after breaking into the car.
- Use no more force than is necessary to enter the car and remove the animal.
- Stay with the animal in a safe area until law police or emergency services arrive.
- Leave a sign on the car that includes their contact information, the cause for entrance, the location of the animal, and that law enforcement has been alerted.
Individuals who are entitled to immunity include:
- Peace Officers
- Humane agents
- Animal control officers
- Emergency Responders
- Any other person
Why Leaving Your Dog in the Car is Dangerous.
Leaving your dog in the car can subject him or her to severe temperatures, lack of ventilation, dehydration, heatstroke, hypothermia, or asphyxia.
According to the American Veterinary Medical Association, the temperature inside a parked automobile may quickly climb, even with the windows cracked. For example, on a 70-degree day, the inside temperature of a car can reach 89 degrees in 10 minutes and 104 degrees in 30 minutes. On an 85-degree day, the temperature may rise to 102 degrees in 10 minutes and 120 degrees in 30 minutes.
Dogs are especially susceptible to heat-related diseases since they can only cool off by panting and sweating via their paws. If they are exposed to extreme temperatures for an extended period, they may get heat exhaustion, heatstroke, organ failure, or even die. Some indicators of heatstroke in dogs are:
- Extreme panting or drooling
- Reddened gums
- Rapid or erratic heartbeat.
- Vomiting or diarrhea.
- Weakness or Collapse
- Seizures or Coma
However, keeping your dog in the car in cold weather can be detrimental since they can quickly lose body heat and develop hypothermia or frostbite. Some indicators of hypothermia in dogs are:
- Shivering, trembling
- Slow or shallow respiration
- Lethargy or depression.
- Low body temperature.
- Stiffness or muscular weakness.
- Loss of consciousness.
What to do if you see a dog in distress in a parked car.
If you encounter a dog in a parked automobile who looks to be in trouble, follow these steps:
- Attempt to locate the owner of the car by asking local businesses or onlookers for assistance.
- If you are unable to locate the owner, contact 911 or local police authorities to report the issue.
- Please provide the location, vehicle description, license plate number, and condition of the dog.
- If you decide to break into the truck to rescue the dog, make sure you follow the methods laid forth
- in the legislation to avoid culpability.
- Stay with the dog until aid arrives, and offer water, shade, or warmth when required.
- Do not attempt to treat the dog yourself, as you may cause further pain or injury.
- Allow the pros to handle the problem and follow their recommendations.
Conclusion
Section 959.133 of the Ohio Revised Code forbids confining animals in unattended automobiles without proper care. Violating this law may result in penalties or imprisonment. Leaving a dog in a parked car offers considerable hazards, such as heat disease or hypothermia.
Good Samaritans who rescue animals from parked automobiles must follow the guidelines provided in the Act. Recognizing the risks and comprehending legal actions is critical to safeguarding the welfare of animals in such situations.