Update: How to Report an Animal Locked in a Hot Car

We are inching toward warm weather which means we need to change the way we do things - including where we leave our animals. If you see a dog locked in a hot car, there's a way to report it keeping you both safe. 

We're looking at 80 degrees in the next couple of days. If you are pulling up to a parking spot at the grocery store to run in for a second but glace next to you and see a dog in the back seat of a car, take note.

A car becomes a greenhouse warming up far past the outside temperature. If it's just 70 degrees on a sunny day, after a half hour, the temperature inside a car is 104 degrees. After an hour, the car can warm up to 113 degrees. (source: heat kills)

With temps reaching mid 80's, it's our job to take care of our four-legged friends. If you see a dog locked in a car in hot weather, take a picture of the dog and the car. Screen shot the weather on your phone (with the time), then break the window. It is reported that you will not be charged with criminal damage and it gives the police photo evidence to take the dog owners to court.

I was misinformed. Everything I wrote was false. KTVB's Morgan Boydston did a fact check and found out that I'm telling you all the lies. Good thing I like her. :)

Here's your update:

In the state of Idaho, you may not break someone's window in order to save a dog. That's the last resort.

Dang it. I really thought we were on to something.

If you come across a dog in a hot car and feel the need to do something (duh, you'd better do something) check with the business the car owner might be in. They may be able to call for the owner over the loud speaker. If the car owner is not reached, you may call the police non-emergency dispatch number. Let law enforcement make that decision.

If you have additional information or ideas on how to keep our furry friends cool during the summer months, please comment.

Personal note: If it's a child in the car, obviously lose your mind (like I would) and do whatever you can to get that child out of the car and don't worry about what will happen to you, legally, because the child is your focus.

Just a heads up: