We experienced triple-digit heat this weekend and many were trying everything possible to keep cool but what about our four legged friends? Kern County Animal Control wants to remind you about the dangers of leaving your pets in the car when the mercury is rising.
What you might not know is, if you leave your pet in a car when it's hot, you could be breaking the law.
"Within 30 minutes, the temperature can rise 15 degrees (in your car)," said Maggie Kalar with Kern County Animal Control. "Your pets are going to suffer. They will suffer heat stroke and they will die."
Leaving your pet in the car can leave you with a fine of up to $500. You can even spend time in jail, depending on the severity of the crime.
"This is against the law," Kalar said. "Our officers have had to go and break windows and rescue the pets and seek immediate medical attention to save their lives."
The heat presents challenges for pet owners in normal day-to-day routines as well.
"When the weather is so warm, the asphalt can be very hot and it can burn your pet's paws," said Kalar. "So if it's too hot for you to be on the cement or sidewalk or asphalt without socks and shoes, it's too hot for your pet."
Animal Control officers say leave your pet at home when you're out running errands. Make sure they have plenty of shade and water and you should be just fine.