The Norfolk OPP are reminding drivers, especially on the hottest day of the year so far, that you should keep your pets at home if you are heading out.
On Saturday, police responded to an Alice Street address in Waterford after a dog was left alone in a vehicle as the owner shopped nearby.
In this incident, the vehicle had left prior to police arrival but the OPP is reminding all pet owners to leave their pets at home and not in a hot vehicle.
You could face serious charges for leaving an animal in a hot car.
A domesticated pet is dependent on the owner for proper care such as food, shelter and water.
The Criminal Code of Canada has specific sections that deal with the mistreatment of animals.
Cause unnecessary suffering – maximum sentence of 5 years in jail
Injure or endanger an animal – maximum sentence of 5 years in jail
Neglect an animal – maximum sentence of 2 year in jail
There is also a Norfolk County Care and Control of Animals By-Law 2014-46 that all residents need to be aware of. Anyone that leaves an animal unattended in a motor vehicle can face a fine of $490 dollars.