CHENANGO COUNTY – As summer progresses, it’s important to know the dangers of leaving a pet or child unattended in a hot vehicle, especially as there have been instances of concerned citizens coming across such situations. It was also almost a year ago that a dog died after being left unattended in a car for four hours at the New York State Fair Grounds.

“People need to understand that even if it doesn't seem like it's hot to you, with the sun it gets hot,” said Lisa Teller, Director of Operations at the Chenango SPCA. “With the windows cracked open they think it's fine, but it's not.”

She and Courtney Sullivan, owner of Doggie Dude Ranch in Norwich, will sometimes receive calls from concerned individuals who come across pets in closed up vehicles.

Teller and Sullivan both agreed that pets should not be left inside a vehicle, unless it is for a very quick trip into a store, etc. In that case, the air conditioning should be left on, the said. Sullivan explained that most often people are well-intentioned and bring their dog with them to ride along, but this is not the best idea.

“Leave your dog at home if you're going to leave it in your car,” Sullivan said.

Added Teller, “Even five minutes is a long time on a hot day.”

The National Weather Service warns against ever leaving children, disabled adults or pets in cars.