As a severe heatwave grips the New South Wales South Coast, authorities are issuing a desperate plea to pet owners: never leave your animal in a parked car, even for a quick errand. With temperatures forecast to hit a scorching 42 degrees Celsius, the interior of a vehicle can become a death trap in minutes.
A Lethal Environment in Minutes
The inside of a parked car can become 30 to 40 degrees hotter than the outside temperature, a fact that makes cracking a window virtually useless. On a 30-degree day, the cabin can skyrocket to a lethal 60-70 degrees or more.
"Just stop doing it," implores Animal Welfare League Inspector Amanda Shane. She stresses that pets, much like babies, cannot communicate their distress effectively. "They can't do anything about it if they are feeling hot... there's a point when they will lie down if they have no energy."
Inspector Shane, pictured with rescue dog Norbert, warns that some people mistake a dog passed out from heatstroke for one that is merely sleeping. She emphasises that complacency is dangerous. "Pets can suffer from heatstroke or even die within minutes, as they can't cool themselves as effectively as humans," she said.
South Coast Braces for Extreme Heat
The warning comes as NSW Ambulance urges preparation for a intense heatwave from January 5, 2026. Forecasts predicted the Illawarra would reach 36 degrees on Thursday, January 8, with a peak of 41 degrees in Bellambi on Saturday. Nowra was likely to hit 40 on Thursday and 42 on Saturday before a cooler change on Sunday.
"All you have to do is stop for a second at traffic lights with no breeze coming through your car to realise how hot it can get," Inspector Shane said, illustrating how rapidly conditions can deteriorate.
Simple Alternatives to a Deadly Risk
Authorities are clear: the only safe option is to leave pets at home. "It's a preventable tragedy, and the best way to protect your pet is to never leave them unattended in a car, no matter how quick the errand," Inspector Shane stated. "Or better still, leave them at home where there is air-con and ample shade and water sources."
For those travelling with pets, she offered practical advice. If leaving an animal at home isn't possible, tying it up outside a store in the shade with water is a far better alternative. "If you know your actions mean you're going into a town centre, leave the dog somewhere else that's more appropriate with access to shelter and water," she advised.
She acknowledged the challenge for holidaymakers but stressed the risk is not worth taking. "It sounds easy just leaving them in the car, but temperatures can change quickly."
Legal Consequences and How to Help
Leaving an animal distressed in a hot car can result in significant fines from police or animal welfare inspectors. Detective Inspector Justin Marks confirmed that NSW Police have a duty of care to preserve life, including animal life.
He urged the public to act if they see an animal in danger. "If you do see an animal that is locked in a vehicle and appears to be in distress, don't hesitate to call 000, and pass on the information," Detective Inspector Marks said. Police are authorised to force entry into a vehicle to rescue an animal if its welfare is at immediate risk.
For non-emergency concerns regarding animal welfare, the Animal Welfare League Far South Coast branch can be contacted on 8777 4444.
As the mercury climbs, the message from inspectors is unified and urgent: what might seem like a harmless few minutes can cost a beloved pet its life. This summer, make the safe choice and leave your furry friends in a cool, safe place at home.
