As the region transitions into spring and the warm weather that accompanies it, Alexandria’s animal control officers will be enforcing the new ordinance passed in November 2011 prohibiting the confinement of animals in vehicles when the outside temperature is at or above 70 degrees Fahrenheit.
Animals are more susceptible to heat-related illness than humans, and in the period from May to September 2011, animal control responded to 103 calls about animals confined in vehicles at high temperatures. Owners in violation of Section 5-7-58 that cause their animal to suffer from heat stress, as diagnosed by a licensed veterinarian, will also be guilty of a Class 1 misdemeanor of animal cruelty.