With the summer heat upon us, we're again being reminded of the dangers of leaving pets in hot vehicles.
The OSPCA has launched its "No Hot Pets" campaign in an effort to prevent animals from dying in the heat.
Agent Ryan Sparks says parked cars can quickly reach dangerous temperatures.
He says a dog's normal temperature is about 38 C and being exposed to anything above 70 F outdoors can be deadly.
"We've heard all of the excuses like they left the window down or they weren't going to be too long," says Sparks. "The risk is not only losing your pet, but there are also legal risks involved as well. So, we're trying to educate more than enforce as much as we can. It's a zero-tolerance policy this year."
Sparks says offenders can face a charge of permitting distress to an animal which is a provincial offence.
He discourages people to break car windows to free pets.
Residents are being asked to use the hashtag #nohotpets to draw awareness on social media and to take the pledge at www.nohotpets.ca.
If you spot an animal in distress, call 310-SPCA or Sarnia police.