Massachusetts Animal Control warns after dogs left in cars during frigid temperatures

Want to leave your dog in a cold car in Massachusetts? You may want to think again.

Dedham Animal Control states that they have been receiving a few calls about dogs left inside cars, while owners are shopping and dining.

Please be reminded that pursuant to M.G.L. C 140 S 174f, ‘a person shall not confine an animal in a motor vehicle in a manner that could reasonably be expected to threaten the health of the animal due to exposure to extreme heat or cold.’

They will respond and may cite you under the law.

About a week ago, a dog was left inside a motor vehicle while its owners sat at a bar inside a local establishment, from at least 5:30pm-until a little after 8:00pm. It was 24 degrees outside as it neared 8:00pm. The restaurant manager advised the dog’s owners that even though they started the vehicle a few times, their staff was uncomfortable monitoring the dog all evening [for them] and that if there is a next time, the establishment will choose animal welfare over patronage.

This week, two dogs were left inside a motor vehicle while their owner was shopping inside a store. It was 18 degrees outside during this time. The vehicle’s engine was ‘off.’ There was enough concern and time passed, that someone who noticed the dogs, called police.

Heat, remote starts, climate controls, ‘it was just for a few minutes’—are often just as inexcusable in winter as they are in summer- and Animal Control still have the determination as to whether or not they feel the animal could be ‘reasonably at risk’.

As for cold-weather breeds…sure some may have more textbook ability to withstand the cold, but as a family pet, these breeds are still often not sufficiently acclimatized, or possess well-stoked internal furnaces, or have fully developed breed-depicted winter coats, to reach a level that prepares them for extreme drops in temperature.

The DAC’s mission is to protect animals and uphold the laws. Please leave pets at home when you go out, especially during this cold snap.

And if you’re out and ‘you see something, say something’.