Pet owners are again being warned about the serious dangers posed to pets that are left inside cars in the sweltering heat.

The City of Calgary Animal and Bylaw Services is teaming up with the Fire Department and the Humane Society to make sure that pet owners are aware of the risks.

The warning comes after a report that during the period of July 1 to 16 showed city services responding to 65 complaints of an animal in distress inside a vehicle.

During the same time last year, there were 31.

Most of the incidents this year were resolved before an officer arrived on scene, but four did result in charges against the dog owners.

Bill Bruce says the temperature inside a vehicle can rise very quickly. “Just think how hot your car is when you return to it even after 15 or 20 minutes. No animal should be left in conditions like that.”

Calgary bylaws state that pets should not be left unattended in a vehicle if the weather conditions are too hot or too cold.

When the temperature outside is only 29 degrees, it only takes ten minutes for that temperature to reach 39 degrees.

In another 20 minutes, that temperature can reach 49 degrees.

“Fire crews are often the first responders to these calls and we understand firsthand how quickly pets can overheat and sustain serious, life threatening injuries or death,” said Jayson Doyscher, Public Information Officer with the Calgary Fire Department.

“We work closely with Animal & Bylaw Services on these calls and we urge pet owners to ensure the health and safety of their pets by not leaving them unattended in their vehicles.”

Animal & Bylaw Services, the Fire Department and the Calgary Humane Society suggest that on hot days, pet owners leave their dogs safely at home where they are comfortable.

On cooler days, if a quick errand results in a dog being left for a short period of time unattended in a vehicle, the windows of the vehicle must be left open to allow suitable ventilation.

It’s also recommended that water be left in the car for the dog to access.

If Calgarians do see an animal in a vehicle in distress, they are encouraged to call 311.