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As summer temperatures rise, the New Brunswick SPCA (NBSPCA) has launched a campaign warning pet owners of the dangers of heat exposure for dogs — both in parked vehicles and during outdoor activity.
The campaign, called Minutes Matter, highlights how quickly a warm day can turn deadly. According to the NBSPCA, it takes just six minutes for a dog left in a parked car to begin suffering from heatstroke. Even with windows cracked, temperatures inside a vehicle can rise by 20 degrees within 10 minutes.
“Even parking in the shade or cracking windows provides minimal protection,” said Chief Animal Protection Officer Tony Porter. “The safest place for your pet during warm weather is at home with proper shelter, ventilation and access to fresh water.”
Dogs are particularly vulnerable to heat because they cool themselves only by panting and sweating through their paw pads. Without proper ventilation or when forced to exercise in high temperatures, dogs can quickly overheat — leading to organ failure or death.
The NBSPCA pointed to a recent case where a New Brunswick man was convicted under the Criminal Code after forcing two dogs to run behind his bicycle for 15.5 kilometres. One dog suffered extreme heat exhaustion and was euthanized. The man received a conditional sentence, probation, and a prohibition from owning more animals beyond the one he currently has.
Porter says it’s a stark reminder of how easily heat can turn fatal. “Even seemingly healthy dogs can suffer heat-related injuries or death when exercised too vigorously on hot days,” he said.
Tips for pet safety in summer:
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Walk pets during cooler hours (early morning or evening)
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Keep walks shorter and bring water
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Take breaks in shaded areas
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Avoid hot pavement which can burn paws
Leaving a dog in a hot car is also an offence under the SPCA Act of New Brunswick, and fines can reach up to $10,000. NBSPCA officers will be patrolling parking lots across the province.
If you see a dog in distress:
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Note the vehicle’s details.
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Ask nearby businesses to make an announcement.
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Call the NBSPCA hotline at 1-877-722-1522.
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If the dog is in severe distress, call local police or RCMP immediately.
Warning signs of heatstroke in dogs include:
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Excessive panting and drooling
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Red or purple gums
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Vomiting, disorientation or collapse
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Seizures
If a pet shows signs of overheating, move them to a cool area, wet their paws and ears with cool water, offer small sips of water, and seek veterinary care right away.
More information is available at nbspca.ca.
