Can I break a car window to save a dog in the UK?
FINDING a dog trapped inside a locked car on a hot day can be a distressing situation.
Many onlookers will want to take action to ensure the safety of the pet – but it’s important to understand the rules and laws before doing so.
Is it illegal to leave a dog in a hot car?
It is not illegal to leave a dog unattended in a car, but owners are legally responsible for their pet’s health and welfare.
If the animal becomes ill or dies as a result, you could be charged with animal cruelty.
If convicted under the Animal Welfare Act 2006, this could lead to a prison sentence and/or an unlimited fine.
While it is not illegal to leave your dog unattended in a car, it is strongly advised that you avoid this at all costs, especially during the summer months.
According to the RSPCA, it takes as little as six minutes for a dog to suffer heat stroke in a hot car and die due to excessively high body temperature.
Can I break a car window to save a dog in the UK?
Car rental service Nationwide Vehicle Contracts has instructed concerned onlookers not to take matters into their own hands.
Doing so could result in an eye-watering fine for criminal damage or an injury to the animal inside.
However, if the intent of you forcing entry is to rescue a distressed animal, you may be legally permitted to do so.
Solicitor Matthew Reynolds, who works for Kirwans law firm, told Cheshire Live: “Although smashing a window to rescue a distressed dog in a locked vehicle could lead to a charge of criminal damage, you would have a lawful excuse to smash the window if you believed that the owner of the vehicle would have consented to the damage, had they been aware of the circumstances.
“It would also be a defence to a charge of criminal damage if you smashed the window to protect the owner’s property (the dog) in the belief that the dog was in need of immediate protection and that smashing the window was reasonable in the circumstances to achieve that aim.
“If you do remove a dog from a car, tell the police what you intend to do and why. It would also be a good idea to take photographs or video of the dog and contact details of any witnesses to the incident.”
How should I get a dog out of a hot car?
If you find a dog left unattended in a hot car or other vehicle and they are showing signs of distress or heat stroke, it is advised to get help immediately.
If the car or vehicle is locked and you are unable to identify the owner, the RSPCA advise contacting the emergency services, such as the police or your local roadside assistance, as they have the authority to remove the dog.
There are also other options to consider when trying to remove a dog from a hot car.
If you’re in a public place such as a supermarket or shopping centre, seek help at the nearest customer service desk.
Staff can make an announcement to help find the owner of the dog.
You could also ask anyone nearby who may have seen the owner to help you locate them.
It’s also important to remember that someone should remain with the dog at all times until help arrives.
For more on caring for your dog in the summer check out our tips on how to keep your pet cool in the hot weather.