Wheat Ridge Police Department Warns of Hot Car Dangers After Rescuing Dog Left in Trailer

The Wheat Ridge Police Department shared a video on their Facebook page, showing officers rescuing a dog from a hot trailer, with temps inside reaching 98°F. The dog was saved, but the incident serves as a stark reminder of the dangers of leaving pets in hot cars, trailers, or vehicles.

The Facts:

• Wheat Ridge PD received a tip about a trailer parked in a neighborhood for 3 days with a dog inside
• Officers found a pitbull mix trapped with no water and showing signs of distress
• Using tools, they opened the door and safely removed the dog, who was scared but unharmed
• Infrared readings showed temps inside the trailer as high as 88-98°F, with the dog's body temp at 100°F
• The dog was taken to Foothills Animal Shelter for care, and police are investigating
• Hot weather increases the risk of hot car deaths, with temps rising quickly and dangerously
• The American Veterinary Medical Association and National Highway Traffic Safety Administration offer tips to prevent tragedies, including leaving pets at home and keeping water accessible

Quotes:

"It is WAY too hot to leave your dog in a trailer unattended." – Wheat Ridge Police Department

"We are here to help you, we don't want you to die." – Officer, speaking to the dog during rescue

"We’re sure you wouldn’t want to be stuck in a trailer with 100-degree heat. Don’t do that to your pets." – Wheat Ridge Police Department