The inside of a parked car heats quickly even on mild days, and cracking windows doesn't help much (AVMA). Leave the dog home if you can't bring it inside with you.
Some states have laws on leaving animals in vehicles; AVMA keeps a summary of state laws (AVMA).
In Indiana, since July 1, 2026, a rescuer who follows five steps, including calling 911 first, isn't liable for breaking into a locked car to save an animal. See Indiana's hot-car rescue law.
Info may be outdated. Verify with the source.
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