June: The Most Dangerous Month for Dogs Left in Cars as UK Temperatures Soar

As the UK experiences sweltering temperatures this summer, a stark warning has been issued to drivers about the deadly risks of leaving dogs in parked cars. New figures reveal that incidents of dogs left in hot vehicles remain alarmingly common, with June proving the most dangerous month of all.
According to data obtained through Freedom of Information (FOI) requests by ALA Insurance, UK police forces recorded over 2,000 reports of dogs left in cars since 2014, averaging four cases every single week.

It’s perhaps no surprise that June — with the start of summer and rising temperatures — saw the highest spike, with 301 incidents reported. Among police forces providing data, Hertfordshire topped the list with 453 cases, followed by Lancashire (360) and Cambridgeshire (266).
The consequences for dogs trapped in hot cars can be devastating. The most frequently reported signs of distress included excessive panting, barking, and, worryingly, complete lack of movement — all red flags for heat exhaustion or potentially fatal heatstroke.

Expert Advice: How Quickly a Car Can Turn Deadly

ALA Insurance has teamed up with Lucia Oliveira, a Registered Veterinary Nurse, to help raise awareness and keep pets safe this summer. Lucia explained:
“Studies have shown that a car’s temperature can rise by as much as 10 to 15 degrees in only 15 minutes. Leaving a window slightly open does not slow down the heating process or help lower the temperature inside.

In such hot conditions, heatstroke develops rapidly. This is a life-threatening situation where the body temperature climbs so high it can cause organ failure and even death.
Signs of heatstroke include heavy panting, excessive drooling (hypersalivation), vomiting, red gums or tongue, seizures, and collapse. During walks or exercise, watch out for restlessness, confusion, drowsiness, or uncoordinated movements. In cats, the signs can be more subtle, so always be vigilant.”

What to Do If You See a Dog in a Hot Car

Carrie Stones, Campaigns Manager at the RSPCA, echoed these warnings, stressing:

“Many people think it’s okay to leave their dog in the car if they’re parked in the shade or have left the windows open. But a car can become as hot as an oven, even when it doesn’t feel that warm outside.
For example, when it’s just 22°C outside, the inside of a car can reach a deadly 47°C within an hour. Never leave a dog inside a vehicle on a warm day — and know what to do if you see one in distress.”

According to the RSPCA, nearly half of the public say they would call the charity if they saw a dog in a hot car. However, in an emergency, always dial 999, as the RSPCA doesn’t have powers of entry — only the police can act quickly to rescue an animal.

Here’s what the RSPCA advises:

• Assess the dog’s condition. If they show signs of heatstroke — heavy panting, drooling, vomiting, collapse — call 999 immediately.
• Don’t break into the car unless absolutely necessary. This could be considered criminal damage. If you believe it’s an emergency and that the owner would consent, the law protects you — but always be prepared to justify your actions.
• If you decide to act:
• Call the police and tell them what you plan to do.
• Take photos or video evidence of the dog and their condition.
• Gather witness names and contact details.
• If the dog doesn’t seem in immediate distress, try to find out how long they’ve been there. Look for a pay and display ticket or ask nearby staff to make a loudspeaker announcement.

The Numbers Are Rising: More Heatstroke Cases Post-Pandemic

Carrie also highlighted worrying new trends:

"Figures from the Royal Veterinary College’s VetCompass programme show vets treating dogs with heatstroke have seen nearly double the number of vehicle-related cases in recent years compared to before the pandemic.
We’re urging owners to do some ‘pet homework’ ahead of the warmer months and take simple steps now to keep animals safe. The RSPCA is even running free ‘Cool Dog Summer’ online workshops to help owners stay informed and protect their pets.”

Rethink Those Summer Road Trips

With temperatures continuing to climb — and June already shaping up to be one of the hottest on record — ALA is urging drivers to reconsider taking dogs on car journeys unless absolutely necessary.
A few small changes could save a life: plan your trips carefully, avoid travelling with your pet during the hottest parts of the day, and never leave them unattended in a vehicle — not even for a minute.