With a little help from Nomo, a 13-year-old Labrador, Los Angeles District Attorney Jackie Lacey on Thursday reminded the public of the dangers of leaving pets in hot cars and that it's illegal.
"Exposure to that kind of heat can cause pets to have a heat stroke, seizures, convulsions or brain damage," Lacey said at a news conference Thursday. "Dogs desperate for air can severely injure themselves trying to get out of the car."
Lacey spoke at the Westfield Fashion Square in Sherman Oaks to launch the pet summer safety campaign, accompanied by the designated spokesdog for the campaign, Nomo.
At the mall Thursday, the temperature reached the mid-80s. In that outdoor temperature, the temperature inside of a car can rise to 120 degrees.
Security guards at seven Westfield shopping centers have been trained to spot animals in trouble and rescue them if necessary.
Earlier this month, San Bernardino District Attorney released his own warning about leaving dogs in hot cars with a video PSA.
Claudia Swing, coordinator for the San Bernardino County Animal Cruelty Task Force said dogs can't release their body heat like people do when they sweat.
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Instead, dogs regulate their body temperature by panting, and sweating through their paw pads, but a car doesn't provide them with enough fresh air.
"Cars literally turn into ovens in a matter of moments, regardless of whether the windows are rolled down or not," Swing said.
Those who leave their pets in hot cars risk being fined $100, even if their car was parked in the shade or left windows cracked. People found responsible more than once face up to a $500 fine or six months in jail.
Lacey asked for the public's help in spotting trapped animals.
While it is illegal to break into a car to rescue an animal, people who notice troubled animals should notify police or mall security for assistance.
