Ranger Services Information Sheet 23

Dogs in hot cars

If you see a dog in a hot car and are concerned for its safety contact the rangers and advise of the location of the vehicle.

If you think the window needs to be urgently broken to ensure the safety of the dog then call the Police and have a constable attend. Rangers do not have the authority to break a car window, only the police do.

The Police will ultimately decide whether or not to break into a vehicle upon arrival. Once the animal has been removed from the vehicle, it can then be impounded for its own safety and wellbeing by the ranger.

Authority

The Police have the power to charge a person under the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals Act - Section 4.

Bottom line is no-one has the authority to break into a vehicle whether damage is caused or not. Always call the Police if you cannot find the owner of the vehicle within a reasonable time.

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