What Texas Law Says About Saving Pets From Hot Cars

(KNUE-FM) Temperatures across East Texas can fluctuate quickly, which means our vehicles can heat up quickly, which is why it’s important to not leave your pets, or especially your children, in a hot vehicle. Even if it’s only for a quick errand, there are no excuses. We have heard of way too many injuries or deaths. But if you see an animal struggling in a hot vehicle, are you allowed to break a window to save them?

On two different occasions I have seen the Tyler Police Department respond to vehicles in the extreme Texas heat with animals left in the vehicle. One time, I was leaving the gym on South Broadway and the officer thought that it might be my vehicle and he was not happy. I quickly assured him that it was not and I would never do that. He immediately began working to save the dog. I will always appreciate seeing his efforts to help the dog in distress.

READ MORE: Woman Arrested for Leaving Dogs in Hot Tyler Car

Can You Legally Break a Window in Texas?

Several states (California, Colorado, Indiana, Massachusetts, Wisconsin, Florida, Ohio and Tennessee) have Good Samaritan laws that permit you to break a car window to save a pet. Unfortunately, here in Texas, there are no current statutes that make leaving a pet in a parked car or truck illegal.

As someone who loves animals, I can tell you that I would gladly take a charge or citation for breaking a window if I see an animal that is struggling to survive. While I never hope that I am in that situation, I refuse to stand by and let a helpless animal suffer.

Get our free mobile app

What You Should Do If You See a Dog in a Hot Car

I would not encourage you to follow my lead, the best course of action would be to call 911, quickly. Leaving a pet in a hot car for an extended period of time can be considered animal cruelty, which can result in jail time and a fine.

According to the Animal Legal Defense Fund, in 19 states, only public officials (such as law enforcement and humane officers) can legally break into a car to rescue an animal. These states include Arizona, California, Delaware, Illinois, Indiana, Maine, Maryland, Massachusetts, Minnesota, Nevada, New Hampshire, New York, North Carolina, North Dakota, Oregon, Rhode Island, South Dakota, Vermont, Virginia and Washington.

Please do what you can to look out for animals. Although, remember that many people will leave their vehicle running and the air conditioner on for their pet, so make sure the animal is actually in distress before taking action.