Vigilante justice hinders, not helps, animals left in hot vehicles

The Winnipeg Humane Society (WHS) is receiving an increase in the number of calls from concerned public about pets being left in vehicles. This is leading to people attempting to break into vehicles and remove them from the heat. The WHS reminds the public that in order for negligent pet owners to receive proper repercussions, the law must be followed.

Winnipeg’s spike in temperature led to an incident on the evening of June 21 where individuals attempted to get into a vehicle with a pet left inside. The WHS experienced a similar incident last week and is concerned more people will attempt taking matter into their own hands.

“Unless the animal is unresponsive breaking into a vehicle and releasing an animal might help short-term, but people who do this can set the animal up to be in the same situation again,” says WHS CEO Javier Schwersensky. “We want these animals removed from hot cars as quickly as possible, but it must be done legally. It’s the only way we can make sure negligent owners receive punishment.”

If the animal becomes unresponsive inside the vehicle, act as soon as possible to remove it. If you believe a dog is suffering from heat stroke, look for these warning signs.

In order to punish pet owners who leave animals in vehicles, The WHS must follow the Animal Care Act of Manitoba and it needs concrete evidence that an animal has been neglected inside a hot vehicle. If a vehicle is broken into and the pet is removed there is no proof to be used in court to fine the owner.

The WHS does not receive government funding for its emergency service, and only has one emergency vehicle and crew to service the city. Hot days lead to multiple calls that must be answered efficiently. Because of this, The WHS relies on the community, police, and fire departments to help pets left in vehicles.

If you find an animal inside a vehicle, call The WHS emergency line (204-982-2020), the non-emergency police line (204-986-6222) or CAA (204-262-6111). If possible, provide the animal with water and attempt to alert the owner in a nearby store while waiting for response.