Officials remind owners not to leave pets in cars

SALT LAKE CITY — As July temperatures soar up to 100 degrees, county officials are reminding people that leaving their pet in the car can not only be deadly for the animal but also result in criminal charges.

Salt Lake County Animal Services is receiving a large number of emergency calls about pets left in hot cars, said Shawni Larrabee, Director of Salt Lake County Animal Services. "Leaving your pet in a car during this time of year is extremely dangerous," Larrabee said. "If you are going where your pet can't accompany you, then please leave them home."

In addition to the risk to the pet, owners can be charged with animal cruelty, which is a Class B misdemeanor punishable by up to six months in jail and a $1,000 fine. Owners may also have additional expenses when windows have to be broken by officers to remove the pet from the vehicle.

— Amy K. Stewart