SURREY RCMP along with the BC SPCA, City of Surrey Animal Control, and Surrey Fire Service participated in a public awareness event on Thursday on the dangers of leaving pets unattended in vehicles in hot weather. 

On average, the Surrey RCMP responds to approximately 100 calls a year for distressed animals left in vehicles. So far this July, officers have already responded to 10 calls for service. 

Recently, a Surrey RCMP officer rescued a dog in distress from a very hot vehicle in the Guildford area. Thankfully this is a rare occurrence, however, officers do have the lawful authority to enter a vehicle and rescue a distressed animal should they deem it necessary. 

“Surrey RCMP typically gets dispatched to distressed animal calls after hours or when Animal Control bylaws officers are unavailable,” says Surrey RCMP Cpl. Scotty Schumann. “We work with our enforcement partners to ensure consistency with these calls and share information on any ongoing issues or concerns.” 

While our weather is expected to cool down slightly in the short term, residents are urged to not leave pets unattended inside their vehicles. Anyone who sees an animal trapped in a hot vehicle is asked to report the issue to authorities. 

If you to see an animal in distress please call the BC SPCA abuse hotline at 1-855-622-7722, City of Surrey Animal Control at 604-5491-4370, or the Surrey RCMP at 604-599-0502. If it is an emergency situation call 911. 

For more information on what to do if you encounter a distressed animal in a vehicle, see the BC SPCA’s website.