Two men rescue dog in distress from parked truck: VPD

Police are reminding pet owners not to leave any animals in vehicles after two men rescued a dog in distress.

The Vancouver Police Department says that the men found the dog in a parked truck on Sunday afternoon, in the area of Pacific Street and Thurlow Street.

Police officers responded to the call and fortunately, the dog was able to be taken out of the vehicle and given water.

Sergeant Aaron Roed, Media Relations Officer for the VPD, says that the SPCA and Animal Control were also contacted for further investigation.

“With the hotter weather upon us we do have to think about animal safety,” says Roed in an emailed statement. “The VPD do recommend to not leave any animals in vehicles which are unattended.”

Daily Hive has reached out to the BC SPCA for further comment.

• See also: 
  • What the BC SPCA says to do if you find a dog trapped in a hot car

What to do when you see an animal in a parked vehicle

While most people have good intentions in trying to save an animal, it is heavily recommended that you don’t break through a glass window.

Only RCMP, local police, and BC SPCA Special Constables have the authority to enter a vehicle lawfully.

“Not only are you putting yourself at risk when you break a glass window, but also risk harming the animal – which might make them more nervous,” says Eileen Drever, a Senior Animal Protection Officer.

Here’s what to do when you see an animal in distress in a parked vehicle:

• Write down the license plate, vehicle colour, make, and model, and ask managers of nearby businesses to page the owner immediately.
• Contact your local animal control agency, police, RCMP, or the BC SPCA Hotline (1-855-622-7722) as soon as possible.
• Keep a kit in your car in case you spot an animal in distress. This includes a bottle of water, a small bowl, a small battery-powered fan, and a towel that can be soaked in water.