A Colorado police department is urging pet owners to act responsibly this summer after a video of officers rescuing a dog from a hot trailer gained traction online.
The Wheat Ridge Police Department shared the video on its Facebook page, emphasizing, It is WAY too hot to leave your dog in a trailer unattended.
Quick Rescue by Officers
The 45-second clip depicts police gathering outside a trailer where a dog can be heard barking. They quickly decide that the dog locked inside is in distress and requires assistance.
According to the department, officers received a tip that the trailer had been parked in a neighborhood for three days. Upon arrival, they saw a pitbull mix trapped inside without visible access to water.
Successful Intervention
In the video, officers use tools to unlock the door and reach inside with an animal control pole, attempting to loop it around the barking dog’s head. An officer can be heard assuring the dog, We are here to help you, we don’t want you to die.
With patience and some ‘good boy’ praise, the officers successfully lead the dog out of the trailer and into a waiting kennel. Although frightened, the dog was fortunately unharmed.
Temperature Inside the Trailer
Infrared thermometer readings from surfaces inside the trailer were between 88 and 98 degrees Fahrenheit, while the dog’s own temperature was 100 degrees Fahrenheit.
The rescued pet was transported to the local Foothills Animal Shelter, and notices for violations including rabies control and cruelty or inhumane treatment have been issued against the owner. The investigation is still ongoing.
Advice for Pet Owners
The Facebook post concluded with a poignant note, We’re sure you wouldn’t want to be stuck in a trailer with 100-degree heat. Don’t do that to your pets.
Safety Measures
This incident is a reminder that hot weather leads to increased risks of hot car deaths for both children and pets. Temperature inside vehicles can rise dramatically within minutes.
- Leave your pets at home in a cool environment when possible.
- Ensure access to fresh water and shade during outings.
- Avoid leaving pets on hot surfaces which may cause burns.
The American Veterinary Medical Association advises pet owners to recognize signs of heat stress and take preventive measures.
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