Summer heat can kill pets left in parked cars, but breaking in to rescue an animal is illegal in Michigan, so consider calling on relevant officials to help.
Though the heat can rapidly rise in a car that’s turned off, leading to life-threatening illnesses and death for animals, the best legal approach in Michigan is to contact authorities if you encounter a case of a trapped animal in a vehicle.
Unlike 32 other states, Michigan doesn’t have a law on the books preventing people from leaving animals in a parked car in dangerous conditions or offering civil immunity for those who rescue them, according to Michigan State University’s Animal Legal & Historical Center.
Pet owners should never leave your furry friend behind in the car this summer, even if the windows are cracked or the air conditioning is on, experts urge. If you must bring your pet on a road trip, bring a leash and take them with you as soon as you exit the vehicle.
Here’s what to know about Michigan law on approaching a dog left in a car.
Is it legal to break into a car to rescue a dog in Michigan?
No, it is illegal in Michigan to break into someone else’s car to rescue a dog left inside in the summer heat.
While 32 states have laws that ban leaving an animal alone in a parked car in dangerous conditions or offer civil immunity to those who rescue a distressed animal from a parked car, Michigan is not among them, according to Michigan State University’s Animal Legal & Historical Center.
Why are hot cars dangerous for pets?
Pets should never be left alone in a hot car as doing so can be life-threatening, the National Weather Service warns.
Potentially fatal heat-related illnesses can impact pets, the American Veterinary Medical Association warns. Just as with people, you should never leave pets alone in a car, not even for a minute.
How to protect your pet from summer heat in the car
Consider if a pet really needs to come on a trip in your car, and if you bring them, bring the appropriate equipment and always remember to bring your pet out of the car with you immediately.
What should I do if I see dog in a car on a hot day in Michigan?
If you notice a dog (or any pet) inside a parked car on a hot day, follow these steps to rescue the animal and protect yourself from a lawsuit, Humane World for Animals advises:
Lansing State Journal contributed.
Contact Jenna Prestininzi: jprestininzi@freepress.com.
This article originally appeared on Detroit Free Press: See a dog left in a hot car in Michigan? Trying to rescue it is illegal
Reporting by Jenna Prestininzi and Sarah Moore, USA TODAY NETWORK / Detroit Free Press
USA TODAY Network via Reuters Connect
