Chesco's Dinniman Proposes Legislation To Protect Pets In Hot Cars

HARRISBURG, PA — With summer officially arriving this week, Chester County's State Sen. Andy Dinniman has introduced legislation to protect pets left in hot cars.

According to the Pennsylvania Veterinary Medical Association, the new legislation will prohibit the confinement of a dog or cat in an unattended car in a "manner that endangers their well-being or health."

Dinniman will be joined by co-sponsors in the House, State Reps. Frank Farry (R-Bucks) and Dom Costa (D-Pittsburgh) at a press conference to announce the bill on Wednesday.

"Because dogs and cats do not sweat like humans do, it is imperative to provide emergency first aid in this critical period, in order to stabilize the pet and to provide some relief, until the pet is able to be transported to a veterinarian for treatment," said Mary Jane McNamee, a veterinarian with the Pennsylvania Veterinary Medical Association. "Heat stroke can quickly cause irreversible organ damage, brain damage and, in extreme cases, death in a short period of time. These are simple but vital measures that anyone can take."

The event will take place at 11:15 a.m. at the East Wing Plaza at the State Capitol Complex.

Image via Sgt. Steve Carney