What to Do if You’ve Locked Your Dog in the Car: A Guide

Earlier, we discussed what steps to take if a baby gets accidentally locked in the car along with your keys. In this article, we’ll address a similar situation, but with a different member of the family in mind—your dog, cat, or any other pet. Read on for the essential steps to follow to keep your furry friend safe and secure.

Understanding the Stress of a Locked Pet in the Car

Discovering your pet locked in the car can be incredibly stressful, and it’s natural to feel a surge of panic. However, in this kind of situation, keeping calm is essential. Maintaining a clear head will help you make better, faster decisions, which is crucial for your pet’s safety. Remember, an agitated response might only increase your pet’s own anxiety and make the situation even more challenging.

While you assess the situation, it’s helpful to take deep breaths and remind yourself that solutions are available. Acting swiftly, yet calmly, will help you ensure that your pet remains as safe and comfortable as possible.

Dog Locked in Car: What to Do?

The first thing to do when you realise your pet is locked in the car is to quickly assess their condition. Here are some indicators to watch for:

• Temperature Check: Assess the temperature inside the car if possible. On a warm or sunny day, car interiors can heat up rapidly, even if the windows are slightly open. In the UK, temperatures as low as 22°C can cause a car interior to reach over 40°C within minutes, putting your pet at severe risk of heatstroke.
• Signs of Distress: Check if your dog or pet is showing signs of distress, such as heavy panting, drooling, or restlessness. These can indicate overheating, especially in a confined space like a car.
• Monitor Breathing and Behaviour: If your pet is breathing heavily or pacing around the car, they could be feeling distressed or overheated. Quick intervention is necessary if they show any of these signs.

If there’s any doubt about your pet’s safety, do not hesitate—call emergency services immediately on 999. The welfare of your pet is a priority, and authorities can assist when an animal is genuinely in danger.

Next Steps if Your Pet Seems Safe:

• Look for a Spare Key: If you have a spare key available, check how long it might take to retrieve it and whether someone nearby could help bring it to you quickly.
• Check All Doors and the Boot: Sometimes, not all doors or the boot have been locked, so it’s worth quickly trying each one. You might find an entry that was left unlocked, allowing you access without further assistance.

What Not to Do if You’ve Locked Your Pet in the Car

No matter how critical the situation may seem, avoid drastic actions such as breaking a car window. While this might appear to be a quick solution, it poses several risks:

1. Risk of Injury to Yourself or Your Pet: Shattering a window can lead to sharp glass shards that might injure you or your pet, especially if they are moving around the car in distress.
2. Potential Car Damage Costs: Damaging your car window is costly to repair and avoidable if you can call professional locksmith services.
   The best approach is to act rationally and use available resources, like contacting a professional locksmith or emergency services if necessary.

Who to Call if Your Dog is Locked in the Car with the Keys?

In situations like these, the most reliable solution is to contact Phoenix Car Keys, a trusted national auto locksmith company in the UK. Phoenix Car Keys provides quick, professional assistance, ensuring your pet’s safety and giving you peace of mind. Their mobile car locksmiths are trained to respond to emergency situations promptly, offering safe, non-damaging solutions for unlocking vehicles.

For emergency car locksmith assistance anywhere in the UK, simply call Phoenix Car Keys’ 24/7 hotline at 03330065210. Their professionals will prioritise your call and arrive promptly to unlock your car safely.

By following these steps, you can act swiftly and effectively to protect your pet in an unexpected situation. Remember that staying calm and contacting professionals are the best ways to resolve a locked-pet situation without causing harm to yourself or your pet.