Florida deputy breaks car window to rescue small dog from heat

Pinellas County, Florida, recently made headlines when deputies rescued a small dog from a hot car in a courthouse parking lot. The incident occurred on a scorching summer day when temperatures reached 88 degrees. A concerned citizen alerted the Pinellas County Sheriff’s Office (PCSO) after spotting the dog locked inside the vehicle with the windows rolled up.

Upon arriving at the scene, deputies immediately noticed the distress the small dog was in. Panting heavily and clearly in distress, it was evident that the dog had been left in the car for approximately 30 to 45 minutes. With the inside of the car reaching a sweltering 120 degrees, the deputies knew they had to act quickly to save the animal.

Body cam footage captured the dramatic moment when deputies smashed the rear window of the car to access the dog. The deputy can be heard reassuring the frightened pup as he carefully opened the door and comforted the animal. The dog, visibly shaken but thankfully unharmed, was given water and taken to Animal Control for further assessment and care.

The owners of the dog were located inside the courthouse and admitted to leaving their pet in the hot car. They were subsequently arrested for animal cruelty, highlighting the seriousness of leaving pets unattended in vehicles, especially in extreme weather conditions.

This incident serves as a stark reminder of the dangers of leaving pets in hot cars. Despite the dog in this case being rescued in time, there are countless instances where animals suffer severe heatstroke or even die due to being left in vehicles. It is crucial for pet owners to prioritize their animals‘ safety and well-being, especially during the hot summer months.

Unfortunately, this is not an isolated incident. Just a few weeks prior, officers in Bradenton were called to rescue a dog trapped in a U-Haul on a sweltering day. These cases underscore the importance of raising awareness about the dangers of leaving pets in hot cars and the legal consequences that can follow.

The Pinellas County Sheriff’s Office emphasized the importance of vigilance and responsible pet ownership in their statement following the incident. They urged pet owners to never leave their animals unattended in vehicles, even for a short period, as the consequences can be devastating.

As we navigate the summer months, it is crucial for everyone to be mindful of the well-being of their furry companions. By taking proactive measures to ensure their safety, such as leaving pets at home or finding pet-friendly alternatives when running errands, we can prevent tragic incidents like the one that occurred in Pinellas County. Let this serve as a reminder to always prioritize the safety and welfare of our beloved pets.