To the Readers' Forum:
So far this summer we have had some very hot and humid days with more to come.
Somehow it never fails, on any given day and in any type of weather, it doesn't matter where I am or what store's parking lot I am in, I always see dogs locked in a car with the windows down, maybe two inches (if that); or I hear a dog barking in a hot car. This is nearly an everyday occurrence. How well do you feel on those very hot and humid days? Do you realize how hot a car gets just sitting? Several days ago, on the news, a woman in Chicago actually baked cookies on the dashboard of her car.
There are a lot of factors that play a part in all of this: 1) the size of your dog; 2) the color of your car and the actual temperature inside your car. If it is 80 degrees outside, it's probably at least 90 degrees plus inside. It doesn't matter if there is a ''breeze'' or not, How much of a ''breeze do you really think gets your dog through a crack of your open window?
Did you know that dogs are a lot like us with brain cells? So, when you lock your beloved pet, whom you love and adore, just like part of your family, their brain cells can die. They could have seizures, go into a coma or even actually die. Your dog may be permanently damaged.
Dogs that ride in vehicles with their heads sticking out could cause eye damage.
The funniest thing is when I have confronted the owner, they either say ''Mind your own business'' (or worse). But the best one is ''I'm only going to be a couple of minutes.'' A couple of minutes to them could be an awful long time. If you don't believe what it is this article, contact your vet.
So, just a little suggestion, maybe you (the caretaker of these precious pets that depend on you for their care and well being) should sit in that hot car first, just to see for yourself what I am saying and see how much you like it.
Please take good care of your pets. They do not deserve to be abused like that; and it is abuse. If you don't want your pet, give it to someone responsible to properly care for these helpless animals. They just don't need your love, they also need good, proper care.
Karen Misko
Jamestown