There has been a recent surge in emergency calls to the RSPCA. The animal charity has received 2,835 calls over the past month from concerned members of the public, the majority of which relate to dogs left in cars. Temperatures inside vehicles can rise very quickly. Even at a comfortable 22 degrees Celsius outside, a car can reach an unbearable 47 degrees Celsius inside, in under an hour. A dog can die within minutes in a hot car, which should be a warning that owners should never risk leaving their pets in cars, even for short periods. 

To help raise awareness, our friends at Skoda have created a series of pictures called ‘Cool Dogs in Cool Cars’ that feature RSPCA rescue dogs, to show pet owners that they should never leave a dog alone in a vehicle. When driving, the advice is to always keep windows open, or use air conditioning to keep pooches in maximum comfort. 

“Our pet dogs are part of the family, so it’s great that so many families choose to take their canine companions with them on holiday and for days out,” says RSPCA dog welfare expert, Lisa Richards. “If you face a long journey with your four-legged friend, it’s really important to make sure everyone is safe, secure and comfortable for the duration of the drive.” 

Skoda is known for its in-car pet practicalities and all models feature ample boot and cabin space for a comfortable journey. Dog accessories such as the dog seatbelt and hammock are part of the Skoda accessories range and are easily fitted to the seatbelts and head restraints, so that pets can ride safely. 

There are things that drivers can do this summer to ensure their pets are safe, while travelling, no matter what the distance: 

1. Never leave your dog alone in the vehicle, which makes it anxious and overheated.
2. In hot weather, always leave the window open slightly when driving, to provide fresh air for your pet. Summer can be a very dangerous time for dogs in transit.
3. Always carry food and water with you, to keep your dog hydrated.
4. Invest in appropriate pet restraints, such as a pet barrier, or seat belt, to ensure that your dog remains legally in the back of the car, throughout the journey.
5. On longer trips and hot days, take regular breaks to provide water for your pet.
6. Where possible, exercise your dog with a short walk during your breaks.
7. When the vehicle is moving, don’t let a dog hang its head outside the car’s windows, no matter how much they seem to enjoy it!
8. Before embarking on a long journey, take your dog on short journeys, to get them familiar with travelling in the car.
9. Keep a close eye on your pet, when travelling, to ensure they are not showing signs of travel-related problems, such as barking, whining, jumping, salivating, vomiting, cowering, or restlessness.
10. If your dog is nervous, when travelling, use reward-based training methods. If you continue to have problems, visit your vet, or a clinical animal behaviourist.
11. Make sure there aren’t any loose items that could harm your dog in the boot, or on the back seat of your car.
12. Bring their favourite blanket, or toy, to help relax the animal.
13. Dogs travel better without a full stomach, so it’s better to feed them more than two hours and walk them well before you set off.
14. Travelling crates, dog guards and car harnesses secure your pet safely, when travelling. Ensure that the crate is big enough for the dog and is positioned somewhere with good airflow, so they don’t get too hot.
15. If you see a dog in a car on a warm day and are concerned for its welfare, please alert the police by dialling 999.