Hot Weather Reminder – Protect Your Dogs

Dear Resident

Despite warnings being issued we are still seeing reports of dogs left in hot cars, we are currently investigating an incident whereby the owners of a dog attended a wedding in Berkhamsted, leaving their dog for 4 hours before members of the public notified the police, tragically despite everyone's efforts the dog died on scene. We will be seeking a prosecution for this offence. 

With temperatures set to rise again next week, please remember: never leave your dog in a parked car, even for a short time.

Cars can heat up dangerously fast, even when it doesn’t feel that hot outside. Leaving a dog in these conditions can cause serious suffering, heatstroke, or even death. 

We often hear the excuse “But the windows were down a bit” or “I parked in the shade”. This is not acceptable and only further proves that the person is not suitable to care for animals. 

Under the Animal Welfare Act 2006, it is an offence to cause unnecessary suffering to an animal. Anyone found doing so could face prosecution, a fine, or even imprisonment, in some cases we will apply to the courts for a disqualification order, which bans a person from owning animals for either a specified or unlimited time.

In instances of high or extreme heat please leave dogs at home where they are cool and comfortable, no dog has ever died from missing out on a walk. 

If you’re concerned about a dog left in a vehicle, report it to the police by calling 999 in an emergency and ensure you obtain any vehicle registration numbers in case the vehicle leaves prior to us arriving. 

Let’s keep our pets safe this summer 

(Image: Generated using AI)