Newport Beach, California — A Southern California animal control officer broke a car window to rescue five dogs trapped inside a hot vehicle, prompting police to issue an urgent warning about the dangers pets face when left unattended in parked cars.
The Newport Beach Police Department released body camera footage of the rescue as temperatures continue to rise across Southern California. Officials said the video was shared to remind pet owners that even a vehicle with slightly open windows can become dangerously hot within minutes.
Officer Finds Five Dogs Trapped Inside Vehicle
According to Newport Beach police, an Animal Control officer responded to a vehicle on May 18 in the 2400 block of Holly Lane after the five dogs were found inside.
Police said the vehicle’s windows were only slightly cracked open, while most of the animals were confined inside cages. The dogs were reportedly showing signs of distress as temperatures climbed inside the vehicle.
With the animals facing an immediate safety risk, the officer took action and broke one of the vehicle’s windows to reach them.
Body camera footage released by police shows the rescue unfolding as the officer worked to remove the dogs from the dangerous conditions.
Dogs Had Potentially Deadly Body Temperatures
After being removed from the vehicle, all five dogs were taken for veterinary evaluation. Police said the veterinarian determined that the animals had reached body temperatures at levels that can be deadly for dogs.
Despite the seriousness of the situation, Newport Beach police said all five dogs have since made a full recovery.
The rescue potentially prevented a much more tragic outcome as the animals continued to endure rising temperatures inside the parked vehicle.
Owner Receives Misdemeanor Citation
The dog’s owner was issued a misdemeanor citation for multiple animal welfare violations, according to police. The case has also been referred to the Orange County District Attorney’s Office for review.
Authorities have not indicated what additional action prosecutors may take following their review.
Meanwhile, the dogs’ situation is still being resolved. Three of the five dogs remain under the care of the Newport Beach Animal Shelter and are currently available for adoption.
Police Warn Cars Can Become Dangerous in Minutes
Newport Beach police used the rescue to reinforce a warning that pet owners should take seriously during hot weather.
Officials emphasized that a parked vehicle can become dangerously hot within just minutes, even when the outside temperature does not initially feel extreme. Cracking a window does not eliminate the danger, according to police.
“Pets can’t cool themselves the way humans do,” officials said. “And leaving them inside a vehicle can quickly turn into a life-threatening situation.”
The warning comes as temperatures rise throughout Southern California, when the risk of heat-related illness for animals can increase significantly.
Newport Beach Police Share Pet Safety Tips
Police urged pet owners to take several precautions during hot weather. Their recommendations include:
- Never leave a pet unattended inside a vehicle.
- On hot days, leave pets at home whenever possible.
- If an animal appears to be in distress inside a vehicle, call for help immediately.
Newport Beach police also praised their Animal Control officers for responding when animals are in immediate danger.
“Our Animal Control Officers are there when moments matter, protecting the community’s two and four-legged residents,” the department said.
Anyone who sees an animal in distress inside a parked vehicle can contact the Newport Beach Police Department at 949-644-3717.
The five rescued dogs survived the incident, but authorities say the case is a reminder that leaving pets inside a parked car can become deadly far faster than many owners realize.
What do you think pet owners should do if they see a dog trapped inside a hot car? Share your thoughts in the comments below.
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