State police are reminding residents as warmer weather comes on: Don’t leave your pet in the car.
A little less than two years ago, Gov. Tom Wolf signed Act 104, also known as the “Hot Car Bill,” which provides protection for law enforcement and emergency responders when a dog or cat is removed from a motor vehicle when showing signs of distress.
“Properly caring for and protecting your pets should be a priority for all pet owners,” state police animal cruelty officer Michael Spada said.
Animals can suffer from heat exhaustion and heat stroke just like humans, police said.
If emergency officials are notified a pet inside a car is in imminent danger, they are permitted to take “reasonable steps” to ensure or restore the animal’s well-being. They must, however make a reasonable effort to locate the driver, and use no more force than necessary to enter a vehicle.
They must leave notice about where the pet can be retrieved.
The law does not give civilians authority to take this type of action. Anyone who sees a pet in a vehicle which appears to be in distress is asked to call local authorities.
